Dua Lipa Interviews Tim Cook on the Future of AI

In the heart of London, a conversation unfolded that was as unexpected as it was enlightening. Tim Cook, the CEO of Apple, known more for his leadership in the boardroom than for casual house visits, stepped into the personal world of pop sensation Dua Lipa. Their meeting, set in the cozy confines of Lipa's living room, was a blend of warmth, candidness, and profound insights, captured in an episode of "Dua Lipa: At Your Service."

As they settled onto the soft cushions of Lipa's couch, the atmosphere was more akin to old friends catching up than a formal interview. Cook, with his calm demeanor, opened up about the burgeoning world of artificial intelligence. He spoke with a mix of optimism and responsibility, highlighting AI's potential to revolutionize our lives while stressing the importance of ethical guidelines to steer this powerful technology.

The conversation naturally veered towards a topic that resonates globally – climate change. Here, Cook shared Apple's vision and actions towards sustainability, painting a picture of a future where technology and environmental stewardship go hand in hand. It was a moment that showcased Apple's commitment to being more than just a tech company, but a responsible global citizen.

But this wasn't just a discussion about technology and corporate responsibility. Cook offered a rare glimpse into his personal life, sharing anecdotes and experiences that shaped him. He talked about his philanthropic endeavors, revealing a side of him that often remains overshadowed by his corporate identity. It was a reminder that behind the CEO title lies a person driven by a desire to make a positive impact in the world.

One of the most intriguing moments came when Cook discussed the future of Apple, particularly the topic of succession. In a company that's a byword for innovation, the question of who leads next is not just a corporate decision but a matter of global interest. Cook's insights into this process provided a rare window into the strategic thinking at the heart of Apple.

What made this interview truly special was the intersection of two very different worlds. On one side was Cook, a figure who has shaped the way we interact with technology, and on the other was Lipa, a voice that resonates with millions in the realm of music and culture. Their exchange was a vivid illustration of how technology and pop culture are increasingly interlinked, each influencing the other.

As the interview drew to a close, it left listeners with a sense of having witnessed something unique. The topics ranged from the technical to the personal, from corporate strategies to ethical dilemmas. This wasn't just a conversation; it was a narrative about where we are today and where we might be heading. Tim Cook's visit to Dua Lipa's home transcended the usual boundaries of a CEO interview, offering a glimpse into a future shaped by technology, humanity, and the endless possibilities when these worlds converge.

Interview:

Dua: Most experts can agree that AI is something that’s going to completely change our world. You’re in a better position than most to speculate – what is that going to look like?

Tim: AI is in all of the products we produce in a very significant way. We don’t label it as such, but if you take the [Apple] watch as an example: if you fall, the watch will detect your fall and send a notification to your emergency contacts and emergency services. It will also detect a [car] crash. It will detect an irregular heartbeat. It will allow you to perform an ECG. If you’re composing a message, predictive typing tries to predict your next word… AI is everywhere today.  

What has gathered people’s imagination more recently is ‘generative AI’ and large language models [for example, ChatGPT]. I think this is an area that can be life-changing, in a good way, because it can do things like help diagnose a problem that you’re having from a health point of view. There’s a limitless number of things that AI can do. Unfortunately, it can also do not good things.

Dua: Those are the things that I am more worried about. It seems like there’s so many great things AI can do, but then I think it also poses profound risks and a threat to humanity. Tell me AI isn’t going to destroy the world!

Tim: What is needed with AI is some rules of the road, some regulation. Many governments around the world are now focused on this and how to do it. [Apple is] trying to help with that. We’re one of the first ones that say this is needed. We’re very thoughtful and deliberate about how we approach these things. We think deeply about how people will use our products, and if they can be used for nefarious reasons, we don’t go down those paths.

Dua: Are governments actually able to regulate AI, or have we gone past that point?

Tim: I think most governments are a little behind the curve today; I think that’s a fair assessment. But they’re quickly catching up. The US, the UK, the EU and several countries in Asia are quickly coming up to speed. I do think there will be some AI regulation in the next 12 to 18 months. I’m confident that will happen.

In this special episode of Dua Lipa: At Your Service, Dua and Tim also discuss the future of wearable tech, shattering the glass ceiling for LGBTQIA+ leaders, his succession plans for Apple and much more. Listen on BBC Sounds, or wherever you get your podcasts, to listen to the episode when it drops on Friday 17 November  

Tim Cook: The Books That Inspire Me

1. To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee – [I read it] as a student. It’s not just for young students, but for all of us.  

2. Shoe Dog by Phil Knight – It’s meant to be a business book, but it’s a book on life. And I really like that, it’s great.  

3. When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi – It is phenomenal.  

4. I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai – I love Malala’s story and her passion around young girls’ education. The work she does is incredible.  

5. I love reading biographies of Martin Luther King and Bobby Kennedy and some of the great people that were pushing forward on civil rights.