Happy 2025

YouTuber Alex Wei’s viral video titled “I lost my freelance writing job to AI” reflects the struggles faced by freelancers as AI tools are favored by clients.

Wei questions, “How can I compete with that?”

For many, navigating the job market becomes troubling, even for those adept at using AI to stay relevant. The costs of advanced AI tools are rising, presenting challenges especially for workers in developing nations.

OpenAI now charges $200 per month for its pro tier, with Midjourney and RunwayML offering premium plans at $120 and $95, respectively. This pricing poses a financial strain in countries like Venezuela, Mexico, and China.

The AI Haves and Have-Nots

These escalating costs exacerbate divides between those who can afford AI and those who cannot. Business owner Daniel Vasilevski sees AI widening the gap between businesses that can invest in it and those that struggle.

Jeff Le points out that the potential for innovation exists but currently benefits only a select few. The growing wealth and opportunity divide is evident as market-driven solutions cater mainly to affluent regions, reminiscent of past technological disparities.

Can Regulations Brood the Divide?

The U.S. Congress acknowledges these challenges as a bipartisan House AI Task Force investigates ways to prevent AI from widening societal gaps. Concerns echo those regarding access to the internet in the 90s. Without careful planning, the growing disparity in AI adoption could become entrenched.

While poorer countries face higher burdens in adopting AI, opportunities for leapfrogging tech development exist, as shown by rapid mobile tech adoption in some regions.

Regulators May Not Have the Last Word

Without intervention, AI could exacerbate global inequalities, similar to early internet access disparities. Yet, some argue market competition can lead to lower prices and drive AI accessibility. Open-source alternatives like China’s DeepSeek R1 threaten monopolies, pushing companies to adapt.

As companies create competitive open-source solutions, there’s hope for broader AI accessibility. OpenAI’s Sam Altman has suggested initiatives to support underserved populations. However, reliance on corporate tools risks reinforcing existing monopolies. Balancing regulations to foster innovation while promoting equitable access remains essential.

Atul Arya encourages prioritizing open innovation and public-private partnerships to ensure AI’s benefits are shared by all.