‘AI won’t make us lazy, it’ll make us smarter’: Google DeepMind CEO on learning and future of coding

“AI Won’t Make Us Lazy, It’ll Make Us Smarter”: Google DeepMind CEO on Learning and the Future of Coding
At the 2025 Google I/O conference, Demis Hassabis, CEO of Google DeepMind and a leading figure in artificial intelligence (AI) research, shared his insightful perspective on how AI is reshaping education, software development, and our approach to learning. Contrary to common fears that AI may lead to laziness or dependence, Hassabis envisions a future where AI acts as a powerful partner that enhances human intelligence and creativity.
Rethinking Learning in an AI-Driven World
Hassabis emphasized that the rapid evolution of AI and related technologies like virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and quantum computing is causing profound shifts across industries. In this landscape, acquiring fixed “hard skills” is no longer the ultimate goal. Instead, Hassabis advised students and professionals to focus on mastering the art of learning itself — the ability to quickly adapt, acquire new skills, and keep pace with technological change.
He argued that learning how to learn is the foundational skill needed to thrive in a world where technology continuously disrupts traditional knowledge. According to Hassabis, individuals who embrace curiosity and experimentation will have a competitive edge. By exploring emerging fields and adopting new tools early, people can remain agile and prepared for future careers shaped by AI.
AI-Enhanced Coding: From Assistant to Innovator
In the realm of software development, Hassabis introduced an innovative AI system developed by DeepMind called AlphaEvolve. Unlike conventional coding assistants that help with simple code completions or bug fixes, AlphaEvolve employs evolutionary algorithms to autonomously design and optimize novel algorithms. This means it can discover new, creative solutions to complex problems — from improving mathematical computations to optimizing data center operations.
Rather than replacing human programmers, Hassabis stressed that AI tools like AlphaEvolve will amplify human capabilities, freeing coders to focus on higher-level creative tasks. By automating routine and computationally intensive work, AI will enable developers to innovate faster and tackle problems previously considered too complex.
The Road to Artificial General Intelligence (AGI)
Looking beyond current AI technologies, Hassabis spoke about the potential arrival of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) — AI systems capable of performing any intellectual task that a human can. He predicted that breakthroughs in planning, reasoning, and world modeling could make AGI a reality within the next five to ten years.
Such a development holds transformative promise: AGI could accelerate progress in medicine, climate science, and scientific discovery by handling vast, interdisciplinary challenges with unprecedented speed and depth. However, Hassabis also cautioned that realizing AGI responsibly requires ensuring these systems are aligned with human values and ethical standards.
Balancing Optimism with Responsibility
While optimistic about AI’s future, Hassabis underscored the importance of developing AI systems that boost human capabilities instead of replacing people. He advocated for responsible AI development focused on collaboration, transparency, and societal benefit. This means building frameworks that manage risks such as bias, misuse, and unintended consequences, ensuring AI remains a force for good.
By fostering a cooperative relationship between humans and AI, society can harness AI’s strengths to solve pressing global issues while preserving human creativity and agency.
Conclusion: Embracing AI as a Partner in Growth
Demis Hassabis’s vision reframes AI not as a threat but as a catalyst for smarter learning and innovation. His call to “focus on how to learn, not just on hard skills” is a timely reminder in an era of rapid technological change.
As AI tools evolve from assistants to creative collaborators, individuals and organizations that embrace lifelong learning and responsible innovation will be best positioned to benefit from the AI revolution. Far from making us lazy, AI has the potential to unlock new heights of human intelligence and creativity — if we choose to use it wisely.