Venture Capitalist Exposes the Growing Trend of 'AI Washing' in Tech

Venture capitalist Dharmesh Thakker, a general partner at Battery Ventures, recently spoke to CNBC about the growing trend of 'AI washing' in the tech industry. AI washing, he explains, is when companies falsely claim to use AI in their products or services to boost their valuations or attract investors. "Every company seems to be AI-related," Thakker said, "and if you're not, you just make it, you know, .AI, and then you're an AI company." Thakker notes that this practice is particularly common among companies valued at over \$50 million. He further explains that he can often spot AI washing by looking at the underlying product and customer base, which often remain unchanged despite the company's claims. "We do see that brand-washing," he stated. Thakker's insights offer a critical perspective on the current state of the AI industry, reminding investors and consumers to look beyond superficial marketing claims.