In recent years, predictions of when artificial general intelligence (AGI) would arrive have shifted dramatically. Originally expected in the next few decades, newer estimates now suggest AGI could be just a decade away. This acceleration is driven by advancements like GPT-5, which demonstrated remarkable leaps in reasoning and memory.
The gap between AGI theorists and developers has narrowed significantly, with builders outperforming speculation. Companies are already reaping benefits from today’s imperfect AI solutions, not waiting for perfect models. These tools are sufficient to address real-world problems now.
For instance, companies like Cursor and Glean have achieved significant success by leveraging today’s AI capabilities, even if they’re not flawless. The key is to start with simple, practical applications that solve immediate needs rather than pursuing speculative future breakthroughs.
The shift from research labs to company product development underscores the importance of iterating quickly. Builders are already dominating markets and creating momentum through early adoption. As these companies continue to refine their tools, they’ll build a foundational understanding of AI integration, setting them up for eventual AGI dominance.
Instead of focusing on speculative timelines or debating perfection, builders should embrace iterative improvement. The key is to start with straightforward use cases and continually iterate based on real-world feedback and outcomes. This approach not only accelerates progress but also ensures the tools are ready when perfect AI becomes available.
In conclusion, while AGI remains a distant possibility for many, the current landscape favors builders who have already started using today’s imperfect yet effective AI solutions. By focusing on practical applications now, these companies are positioning themselves to take over entire industries once AGI arrives, whether in 2027 or beyond.
