Pokemon Go players trained AI without knowing it and it’s gross

by

The mobile game Pokemon Go has been secretly using its players as unwitting trainers for artificial intelligence (AI). Whether you view this practice as acceptable or unethical, it may raise questions about the boundaries of trust between the game developer, Niantic, and its players.

In simpler terms, while most Pokemon Go players are primarily focused on catching Pokemon, spinning PokeStops, joining raids, or battling at gyms, they might not realize they’re actually helping to train artificial intelligence (AI). This happens when they scan their real-world surroundings near PokeStops. The data collected in this process is used to improve a program known as the Large Geospatial Model. This model helps fill in details that Google Maps can’t provide, such as information about parks, pedestrian areas, and other locations that are difficult to reach by car.

As a movie buff, I find myself pondering over the fascinating possibilities hidden within the data generated by Pokémon Go players. ZME Science sheds light on this intriguing topic, suggesting that this data could serve purposes beyond just gaming. The insightful Elise Thomas, an Open Source Intelligence analyst, draws attention to a compelling angle: the AI models used to enhance AR glasses in games like Pokémon Go could potentially be repurposed for military surveillance or law enforcement tracking. In simpler terms, if an AI can perceive the world as vividly as we humans do, it could also play a crucial role in security, monitoring, and even anticipating potential law enforcement situations – a concept that extends beyond the realm of games.

Niantic additionally clarifies that the scanning function is voluntary; it requires users to visit a particular publicly-accessible spot and click to scan. This process enables Niantic to offer unique augmented reality experiences, ensuring game enjoyment. Simply wandering around playing these games does not contribute to AI model training.

To put it another way, I find AI rather unpleasant and off-putting. Frankly, I’m not overly fond of AI in its entirety. It often seems to pose a risk to my job, as well as the jobs of my artist colleagues. Yet, I recognize that certain forms of AI can be exceptionally useful when employed as a tool rather than as a substitute for human abilities.

My primary concern arises from what I perceive as an unethical situation here. I’ve utilized the PokeStop scanner in the past due to its benefits within the game. Occasionally, it’s enjoyable to earn small rewards. Niantic labeling this function as “entirely optional” is disturbing because I was unaware of what my scans were being employed for. If I had known that this feature was contributing to AI training, which could potentially be utilized by military or law enforcement agencies, I would have abstained from using it initially. There was no opportunity provided for me to opt out of it. Additionally, learning that Niantic has sold Pokemon Go to a Saudi Arabian company adds an extra layer of unease, considering the unknown destination of that data.

This revelation about one of my beloved games and decades-long franchise has shattered my trust. I wish The Pokemon Company could intervene somehow to rectify some of this mess. Yet, it may be an issue beyond their control.

Read More

2025-03-19 17:14