Wang Jian Warns 90% of AI Applications May Be Obsolete Within a Decade

Founder of Alibaba Cloud Expresses Skepticism Over Long-Term Viability of AI Applications

Wang Jian, founder of Alibaba Cloud, has issued a stark warning about the trajectory of artificial intelligence, forecasting that the majority of current AI applications may lose relevance in the coming years. In a recent statement, Wang highlighted what he sees as a fundamental problem in the AI industry: the prevalence of bias and the inflation of expectations.

According to Wang, these two factors are accelerating the obsolescence of many AI tools and models. He argues that while AI has made impressive strides in recent years, much of its development has been driven by hype rather than sustainable innovation. This has led to the proliferation of applications that may not withstand the test of time.

Bias as a Major Limitation

Wang emphasized that bias—whether in data, algorithms, or design—is a critical flaw undermining the effectiveness of many AI systems. He explained that biased models often fail to deliver consistent or accurate results across diverse use cases, leading to a loss of trust and adoption over time. This issue, he noted, is particularly pronounced in applications that rely on historical data, which may reflect outdated or skewed perspectives.

The founder of Alibaba Cloud also pointed out that many AI projects are developed without a clear understanding of long-term ethical and operational challenges. As a result, what may appear as cutting-edge today could quickly become irrelevant or even harmful in the future.

Overhyped Expectations Undermine Long-Term Value

In addition to bias, Wang identified overhyped expectations as a key driver of short-lived AI applications. He argued that the industry has been prone to overpromising, with many startups and tech firms touting AI as a universal solution to complex problems. This has led to inflated valuations and unrealistic benchmarks, which, when unmet, result in disillusionment and abandoned projects.

Wang’s critique suggests that the AI landscape is still in an experimental phase, with many applications serving more as proof-of-concepts than as scalable, enterprise-grade tools. He warned that unless the industry shifts its focus from hype to substance, it risks a wave of obsolescence within the next five to ten years.

A Call for Sustainable AI Development

Despite his concerns, Wang did not dismiss AI as a whole. Instead, he called for a more measured and responsible approach to its development. He emphasized the importance of building AI systems that are not only technically sound but also ethically aligned and adaptable to future needs.

Wang’s remarks reflect a growing awareness within the tech industry that AI’s success depends not just on technical innovation but also on how well it integrates with real-world applications and societal expectations. His prediction that 90% of current AI applications may become obsolete underscores the urgent need for a more sustainable and thoughtful approach to the future of artificial intelligence.