In May 2023, Google announced its newest artificial intelligence (AI) language model, PaLM 2. This next-gen technology builds on PaLM 1, and Google hopes it will rival competitor creations, including OpenAI’s GPT-4, which is the foundation for ChatGPT.
PaLM 2 is already powering a variety of features across Google products. For example, tools in Workspace can assist with email and document writing, while Med-PaLM 2 aims to make medical information more accessible. PaLM 2 is also incorporated into Bard, an experimental AI chat service similar to ChatGPT. However, that just scratches the surface of how PaLM 2 is changing the landscape. Here’s a closer look at what the technology offers.
What Google’s PaLM 2 AI Language Model Brings to the Table
Enhanced Logic and Reasoning
During the training of PaLM 2, there was an emphasis on logic and reasoning capabilities. The broad dataset used to support the language model includes a variety of scientific and mathematically-oriented content. In turn, this improved the technologies capabilities when analyzing information and applying logic, reasoning, and even common sense.
Bolstered Coding Capabilities
Using AI to create code isn’t a new concept, but PaLM 2 aims to improve the overall experience. Within its training data are large quantities of publicly-available source code data, giving the tool an improved understanding of code structure. As a result, it’s capable of generating code in a variety of languages, ranging from widely-used ones like JavaScript and Python to specialized options like Fortran and Prolog.
Improved Multilingualism
One of the most striking features of PaLM 2 is its enhanced language capabilities. The language model was trained on multilingual text, which included materials in over 100 languages. As a result, it’s better at translating text between languages, communicating in different languages, and more. In some languages, the technology is accurate enough to even pass “mastery” exams, showcasing its strong degree of accuracy.
Additionally, PaLM 2 can evaluate context and accounts for idioms and slang in many languages. It can also explain how using idioms or slang could potentially lead to miscommunication, effectively outlining the difference in the literal translation and comparing it to its potential meaning based on commonly used expressions.
The Risks in Using Tools Powered by PaLM 2
As with all AI language models, there are risks associated with using tools powered by PaLM 2. Most training data contains information that’s published online, and while some may be highly accurate, incorrect information is prevalent. While Google isn’t clear about the exact nature of the training dataset, the odds that it’s infallible are low. As a result, PaLM 2 may draw conclusions or make recommendations based on biased or false information that it doesn’t know is incorrect.
PaLM 2 is also at risk of “hallucinations,” a situation where the AI makes up information as a means of generating a response. While PaLM 2 is an improvement on PaLM 1 in this regard – and it’s by no means the only AI capable of these errors – it’s not incapable of hallucinations.
There are also questions of legality when it comes to the training data used to support technology like PaLM 2. Often, data is scrapped from the internet, and there’s a chance it contains copyright-protected writing in the mix. In some cases, fair use may apply. However, there are questions about whether AI training can qualify under fair use, and as this point is examined by the courts, any determinations could fundamentally alter the landscape.
Finally, while PaLM 2 has improved multilingualism, that doesn’t mean inaccurate translations are impossible. While they’re less likely with languages widely used in web publications – such as English or Spanish – that doesn’t mean they’re impossible. Additionally, languages that aren’t as well represented in the training datasets can have a higher likelihood of inaccuracies, increasing the chances of miscommunication.
Do You Need to Communicate with a Diverse Population?
Google’s PaLM 2 AI language model is a powerful tool, and it has the potential to simplify communication across a diverse population. However, while PaLM 2 has improved multilingual capabilities, inaccuracies can occur. That’s why partnering with a leading language services provider is essential, as it ensures accurate, streamlined communication.
Acutrans can provide professional certified document translations in 24 hours and also offers translation services designed for the legal, technical, and healthcare industries specifically. Additionally, Acutrans has video remote, over-the-phone, and on-site interpretation programs covering over 200 languages, including industry-specific programs for the legal and medical sectors. Contact us for a free quote today.