Why the Public Resists AI Despite ChatGPT's Popularity
Nilay Patel's video essay argues that AI's unpopularity stems from a disconnect between tech enthusiasts with "software brain" and the general public. Software brain views the world as something to automate, but not everything is a business or a data loop. The human experience cannot be flattened into a database, which is why people hate AI. Patel notes that even smart home automation from Apple, Google, and Amazon has failed to interest most people. The essay was posted by Simon Willison on April 24, 2026, and is described as a superb piece of commentary. Willison also offers a curated email digest for sponsors.
Key facts
- Nilay Patel wrote a video essay on AI's unpopularity.
- The concept of 'software brain' sees the world as automatable.
- AI makes it easier to automate business processes.
- The human experience cannot be captured in a database.
- People hate AI because it flattens them.
- Smart home automation from Apple, Google, and Amazon has struggled for over a decade.
- Simon Willison posted the link on April 24, 2026.
- Willison offers a curated email digest for $10/month sponsors.
Entities
Artists
- Nilay Patel
Institutions
- Apple
- Amazon
- Simon Willison