Character.AI Gave Up on AGI. Now It’s Selling Stories

Character.AI, a startup that previously aimed to develop artificial general intelligence (AGI), has shifted its focus to become an entertainment company. The company's new CEO, Dario Amodei, has stated that Character.AI now has over 20 million users and is selling stories and creative content rather than pursuing AGI. The article notes that Character.AI had initially promised to develop superintelligence but has since abandoned that goal. Instead, the company is now positioning itself as an entertainment platform, where users can engage with AI-generated stories and creative content. The article highlights the company's change in direction and its transition from an AGI-focused startup to an entertainment-oriented platform with a significant user base. It suggests that Character.AI's new strategy is a significant departure from its initial ambitious goals and reflects the challenges faced by companies in the AI industry.