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Eric Schmidt’s New Secret Project Is An AI Video Platform Called ‘Hooglee’

Jan 09, 2025 - forbes.com
Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt has quietly founded a startup named Hooglee, focused on AI video generation, with the aim of democratizing video creation and enhancing communication. The project, financed by Schmidt’s family office Hillspire, is led by Sebastian Thrun and includes former Meta research scientists. Hooglee is described as a potential TikTok alternative, though its competitive strategy remains unclear. The startup's mission is to leverage AI to change how people connect through video, amidst a landscape where companies like Runway, OpenAI, and ByteDance are also advancing AI video technologies.

Schmidt, known for his polarizing views on AI, has previously invested in AI companies and initiatives. Despite his enthusiasm for AI's potential, he has expressed concerns about its risks, particularly regarding deepfakes and misinformation. Hooglee’s approach to these issues is not yet known. Schmidt's past comments on TikTok and AI's role in content creation highlight his interest in the intersection of AI and social media, though he advocates for regulation over outright bans.

Key takeaways:

  • Eric Schmidt has founded a startup named Hooglee, aiming to democratize video creation with AI and potentially serve as a TikTok alternative.
  • Hooglee is being financed and housed by Schmidt's family office, Hillspire, and is led by Sebastian Thrun, with staff including former Meta research scientists.
  • The startup's mission is to enhance communication and engagement through AI, with its product described as both an AI video creation software and a social networking platform.
  • Schmidt has expressed concerns about AI's potential harms, such as deepfakes, and has suggested solutions like AI detection systems and watermarking.
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