Tools & Platforms
Billionaire Mark Cuban Says AI Gives Workers ‘Superpowers,’ but Crypto Is ‘Not Even Close’ to Its iPhone Moment
Mark Cuban has always been tech’s most pragmatic and outspoken billionaire. As an early internet entrepreneur, a prolific investor on Shark Tank, and the owner of the Dallas Mavericks, he’s seen multiple hype cycles come and go. He was an early advocate for crypto’s potential but has remained a sharp critic of its excesses.
Now, as the twin forces of artificial intelligence and cryptocurrency dominate the conversation, we asked Cuban to weigh in. In this exclusive Q&A, he explains why he thinks AI is on the verge of changing everything, why crypto is still waiting for its big moment, and what the future of work looks like in a world where technology gives “superpowers” to anyone willing to learn.
This conversation has been lightly formatted for clarity. All quotes appear exactly as Cuban gave them.
The Big Picture: AI vs. Crypto
Gizmodo: You’ve invested in both AI and crypto. Which one do you think will have the deeper impact on society, and which one will deliver more value to regular people?
Mark Cuban: AI. It’s not even close.
On AI: The Real Revolution
Gizmodo: On AI, how do you see the traditional office changing in the next five years, with AI now able to handle scheduling, admin, copywriting, even management tasks?
Mark Cuban: More than anything we have ever seen in technology. I think AI will give superpowers to not just companies, but any employee willing to learn how to put it to use. It can take your newest employee and, with some curiosity and effort, make them as accomplished as long-term employees that won’t use AI.
Gizmodo: What kinds of jobs or roles do you think will disappear completely in the next wave of AI adoption, and what will replace them?
Mark Cuban: If your job has binary tasks, you will no longer do those tasks. AI will. But if you can be creative and find new ways to use AI to improve the productivity and profitability of your job and company, you will always be able to get hired.
[Editor’s note: Binary tasks include things like filling out forms, processing documents, basic customer service, or data entry jobs that follow clear if-then logic.]
On Crypto: Still Waiting for a Use Case
Gizmodo: Do you think crypto, particularly bitcoin and stablecoins, is having its “iPhone moment”? If not, what’s still missing?
Mark Cuban: No. Not even close. The iPhone App Store drove everyone to use apps for everything and anything they could. Your grandparents asked about how to download Facebook and Instagram to share pictures. Have you had your grandparents ask for help downloading a wallet?
[Ed. note: A crypto “wallet” is a software program or physical device that allows users to store and manage their cryptocurrencies. Unlike mainstream apps, they have not yet been widely adopted by the general public.]
Gizmodo: You’ve talked in the past about utility being more important than hype in crypto. What’s the most promising use case you’re seeing now?
Mark Cuban: Honestly, I had hoped that smart contracts on Ethereum, Polygon, and other platforms would lead to applications that would be mainstream by now. It’s not even close. [Ed. note: Smart contracts are bits of code that automatically execute transactions. They power decentralized finance, NFTs, and more.]
There are some like Book.IO for books and textbooks, dClimate for climate data, and other apps that I’m still involved in. There can be apps that store video and photos on a chain as a way to combat AI deep fakes and other fraud. I think that could be impactful.
But generally, crypto hasn’t had its Instagram moment yet.
Gizmodo: Is the U.S. government getting ahead or falling behind in shaping crypto as financial infrastructure?
Mark Cuban: I think we are behind. It’s not as much about a digital financial infrastructure, it’s more about allowing types of transactions that cause non-crypto users to question the stability and legality of crypto.
Meme coins are one example. There is no utility. It’s a collectible where every transaction siphons off fees and is presented as gambling, or a game of musical chairs, that has no rules.
Another is when crypto is lent out. Unlike when stocks are being lent out, there is no law that I’m aware of that requires collateral to be put in place. This is why FTX didn’t collapse in Japan. They have collateral and cold storage laws. If we had the same in this country, crypto would be far more trustworthy. Both cause observers who may be considering using crypto to question its viability.
[Ed. note: Following the collapse of the crypto exchange FTX in 2022, its Japanese subsidiary was able to make customers whole because Japanese law required customer assets to be held in separate, fully collateralized accounts.]
On Crypto: The Current Reality
Gizmodo: Are we in a crypto bubble right now, or is this just what widespread adoption looks like?
Mark Cuban: I think BTC has taken all the thunder. It’s a store of value, and we don’t expect it to create utility. Every other chain basically does the same as the rest in one form or another, with some differentiation in features, functions, and speed. They just battle it out to lock up as much usage as possible. But the reality is there are far too many chains.
Gizmodo: How do you view the rise of bitcoin treasury companies like MicroStrategy? Are they early visionaries or overly exposed?
Mark Cuban: It’s fine as long as you have a long-term horizon. Most companies can’t afford to set aside liquid assets for long periods of time. They need the money. But if you can look long term, it’s definitely a strategy worth considering.
[Ed. note: MicroStrategy is a software company turned bitcoin holding vehicle that now owns several billions of dollars worth of bitcoin.]
Gizmodo: Stablecoins are being used for real-world transactions at scale. Do you think they’ll become the core financial rails of the internet economy, or are there limits?
Mark Cuban: I think they are positioned to continue to grow. If you transact globally in dollars, it’s certainly a less expensive and faster option.
[Ed. note: Stablecoins like USDC or USDT are cryptocurrencies pegged to the U.S. dollar. They are used for fast global payments without banks or currency conversions.]
Gizmodo: Are we heading toward a future where corporate treasuries routinely hold bitcoin or stablecoins, the way they hold foreign currencies or bonds today?
Mark Cuban: Yes. Absolutely. You even see JPMorgan using stablecoins. I think it will be a way to transfer money far more effectively. We just need to make sure that we have enough regulation that it’s not easy for fraud and hacks to have an impact.
The Raspberry Pi Foundation’s analysis presents coding as not merely a vocational skill but a fundamental literacy that develops critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and technological agency — competencies argued to be increasingly vital as AI systems permeate all aspects of society. The foundation emphasizes that while AI may automate certain technical tasks, human oversight remains essential for ensuring the safety, ethics, and contextual relevance of computer-generated solutions.
For educators, parents, and policymakers, this report provides timely insights into preparing younger generations for an AI-integrated future.
Image Credit: Raspberry Pi Foundation
AI dishes up savings and smiles at KFC and Pizza Hut
Last updated:
Edited By
Mackenzie Ferguson
AI Tools Researcher & Implementation Consultant
Yum China, the operator of popular fast-food franchises like KFC and Pizza Hut, is diving into the AI world to enhance efficiency and profitability. The company is leveraging AI technology to optimize everything from supply chain processes to in-store operations. As a result, customers can expect faster service and more personalized experiences. This tech rollout represents a significant move towards incorporating cutting-edge technology into everyday business operations.
Background and Context
Yum China, the operator of well-known fast-food chains such as KFC and Pizza Hut, is leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance efficiency and drive profitability in its operations. By incorporating AI technologies, Yum China aims to streamline processes and optimise various aspects of its business strategies. This move not only highlights the company’s commitment to innovation but also its adaptability in an ever-evolving business landscape. For more details on this initiative, you can check the original source here.
In a rapidly changing market, such technological advancements are indispensable for businesses aiming to stay competitive. Yum China’s integration of AI is a strategic move to not only increase operational efficiency but also enhance customer experience, allowing the company to better respond to consumer needs and preferences. This adoption of AI showcases a growing trend among major corporations to harness technology for maintaining relevance and achieving business goals in a digital age.
The initiative by Yum China to embrace AI technologies is also reflective of the broader shift within the restaurant industry towards automation and data-driven decision-making. As companies look to streamline operations and improve margins, artificial intelligence offers a pathway to achieve these objectives. This transformation is crucial for building resilience against market fluctuations and for ensuring long-term sustainability of business models.
Summary of the Article
Yum China, the operator of fast-food chains KFC and Pizza Hut, is increasingly integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into its operations as part of a strategy to enhance efficiency and profitability. The adoption of AI technologies by Yum China is a significant move in the restaurant industry, aiming to streamline processes and improve customer service dynamics. By leveraging AI, the company can not only predict customer preferences more accurately but also manage supply chains more effectively, ensure food quality, and potentially increase sales figures. This strategic embrace of AI underscores Yum China’s commitment to staying ahead in a competitive market landscape where technological adaptation is crucial for business success.
Experts suggest that Yum China’s focus on AI could set a precedent for other major players in the fast-food industry. The integration of technology in food service can lead to more personalized dining experiences, as AI systems are well-equipped to handle and interpret large sets of data related to consumer preferences. This technological shift is especially relevant given the fast-paced nature of consumer markets today, where adaptability can lead to significant competitive advantages. The proactive use of AI could also address labor challenges by shifting tedious and repetitive tasks to machines, thereby allowing human employees to focus on more value-added services.
Public reactions to Yum China’s AI initiatives are largely positive, with consumers expressing interest in faster service and more customized meal options. However, there are also discussions regarding potential job losses due to automation. This has sparked debates on how the balance between AI integration and employment opportunities can be maintained. The future implications of such technological integration suggest that other industries may follow suit, adopting AI not only to improve efficiency but also to innovate in customer service practices—creating a ripple effect throughout the economy.
Related Events
The recent initiatives undertaken by Yum China, the operator of KFC and Pizza Hut, in embracing AI technologies have sparked a series of related events across the business landscape in China. As highlighted in their recent strategies, the integration of AI is not merely about enhancing operational efficiency but also about revolutionizing customer experience. This shift is setting a precedent for other major players in the fast-food industry, encouraging them to explore similar technological advancements.
In response to Yum China’s adoption of AI, various technology firms in China are collaborating with fast-food chains to offer AI solutions tailored to the food and beverage sector. This burgeoning collaboration marks a significant trend in tech-driven partnerships aimed at bringing innovation to everyday consumer experiences. Such alliances are fostering a new era where technology and gastronomy intersect to redefine dining experiences.
Furthermore, this movement is influencing policy discussions at a governmental level, where the focus is increasingly on supporting AI development across different industries. The Chinese government’s enthusiasm for AI as a tool for modernization and efficiency is further emphasized by such corporate moves, thereby reinforcing national goals for technological advancement and self-reliance.
The ripple effects of Yum China’s AI integration are also evident in academic circles, where institutions are emphasizing AI research geared towards practical applications in commercial settings. This academic interest not only fuels future innovations but also ensures a steady supply of skilled professionals ready to meet the demands of a tech-driven economy. In essence, Yum China’s AI strategies are not just operational choices but are contributing to wider societal and economic shifts.
Expert Opinions
In the rapidly evolving landscape of the restaurant industry, particularly in China, expert opinions highlight significant opportunities for leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiency and profitability. Yum China, the operator behind fast-food giants KFC and Pizza Hut, is at the forefront of this transformation. As noted by industry analysts, the company’s strategic integration of AI solutions not only streamlines operations but also personalizes customer experiences. This move is seen as a response to the competitive market pressures and a shift towards more digital-savvy consumer preferences.
Experts have praised Yum China’s innovative approach, emphasizing that the use of AI technology could serve as a blueprint for global franchises aiming to modernize their operations. The company’s application of AI goes beyond mere efficiency. It enables a deeper understanding of consumer behavior, allowing for more targeted marketing strategies and adaptive supply chain management. Industry leaders believe that Yum China’s model could set new standards in the fast-food industry, potentially reshaping how global chains operate. More insights into this transformation can be found at the South China Morning Post.
Public Reactions
The integration of AI by Yum China, the operator of KFC and Pizza Hut in China, has sparked varied public reactions. Many customers have expressed excitement about the increased efficiency and improved service that AI can bring to their dining experience. Some diners appreciate the novelty and technological advancement, which they believe could streamline operations and enhance their overall experience at these popular food chains.
However, not all reactions have been positive. Some consumers have voiced concerns about privacy and data security, as AI systems often require extensive data collection to function effectively. These customers are wary of how their information might be used or shared and are calling for clearer policies and assurances from Yum China regarding data protection.
Moreover, there is a segment of the public that is apprehensive about the potential impact of AI on employment. With AI taking on tasks traditionally handled by human workers, concerns about job displacement have arisen, leading to discussions on how Yum China plans to balance technology integration with human resource management. This sentiment is shared by many globally, reflecting a broader anxiety about the rise of automation in various industries.
Overall, while the use of AI in Yum China’s operations presents exciting opportunities for innovation and growth, it also highlights significant issues that resonate with a global audience. For an in-depth look at Yum China’s AI strategy and public reaction, the South China Morning Post provides more insights here.
Future Implications
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into business operations is increasingly transforming industries across the globe. Yum China, the operator of fast-food giants like KFC and Pizza Hut, is a prime example of this trend. By leveraging AI to streamline their processes, they are setting a precedent for other companies to follow. This move is expected to significantly enhance their operational efficiency and profitability, as highlighted in a detailed article by the South China Morning Post.
Looking ahead, the adoption of AI by Yum China could have broader implications for the fast-food industry both in China and globally. As other companies observe Yum China’s successful integration of AI technologies, there may be a ripple effect, prompting more industry players to invest in AI solutions to remain competitive. This could lead to a revolution in customer service, supply chain management, and even menu personalization, driven by AI-driven insights.
Moreover, the shift towards AI can potentially reshape employment dynamics within the sector. While automation may reduce certain manual roles, it also opens up new opportunities for tech-savvy professionals who can develop, manage, and optimize these AI systems. This transformation necessitates a recalibration of workforce skills and continued education for employees to adapt to a tech-driven environment, as noted in discussions surrounding similar advancements.
Hangzhou, the picturesque capital of Zhejiang Province, is quickly emerging as a key pillar in China’s artificial intelligence (AI) revolution. Once known primarily for its cultural heritage and as the headquarters of e-commerce giant Alibaba, the city is now transforming into a powerful AI hub, driven by visionary government policies, a dynamic startup ecosystem, cutting-edge academic institutions, and high levels of private and public investment. Its rapid evolution exemplifies China’s broader strategy to lead the global race in artificial intelligence.
Government Initiatives and Strategic Policy Support
A major driver behind Hangzhou’s AI rise is the strong backing of the Chinese government, both at national and provincial levels. The “Hangzhou AI Industry Chain High-Quality Development Action Plan” has set bold objectives: certifying more than 2,000 new high-tech enterprises, launching over 300 large-scale technological projects, and injecting an impressive 300 billion RMB (approx. US$40 billion) into innovation annually. This funding supports AI research, development of cutting-edge applications, infrastructure, and talent cultivation.
Further cementing Hangzhou’s AI ambitions is the revitalization of “Project Eagle,” a policy initiative that allocates 15% of industrial development funds to future industries, with AI being a priority. These initiatives are not only helping to establish Hangzhou as a hub of AI innovation but are also attracting domestic and international investors eager to tap into this growth.
The Rise of the “Six Little Dragons”
One of the most notable signs of Hangzhou’s AI success story is the emergence of six pioneering startups, collectively referred to as the “Six Little Dragons.” These companies represent the city’s growing diversity and sophistication in AI application:
DeepSeek – Known for its work in natural language processing and large language models.
Game Science – A game development firm leveraging AI in next-gen interactive experiences.
Unitree Robotics – Specializes in agile AI-powered robots for various industrial and consumer applications.
DEEP Robotics – Develops quadruped robots capable of complex navigation and movement, often used for security and research.
BrainCo – Focuses on brain-computer interface (BCI) technologies that merge neuroscience and machine learning.
Manycore Tech – A hardware and software AI solutions provider with strengths in chip design and high-performance computing.
These companies are not only rapidly scaling within China but are also attracting international attention for their technological advancements and commercialization potential. Their presence underscores Hangzhou’s strength in fostering both technical excellence and business scalability.
Academic Foundations and Skilled Talent Pipeline
Hangzhou’s AI ecosystem is further bolstered by a solid academic foundation. Zhejiang University, one of China’s top-tier institutions, plays a critical role in producing AI talent and thought leadership. The university houses cutting-edge research labs and has established partnerships with top tech firms for collaborative innovation.
Graduates from Zhejiang University and other local institutions often go on to found startups or take leadership roles in the AI industry. The close connection between academia and industry ensures a continuous exchange of ideas, innovation, and expertise, which is essential for sustained growth in emerging technologies like AI.
In addition, Hangzhou has invested in AI-focused education and vocational training programs to ensure that its workforce remains competitive. This comprehensive talent strategy allows the city to meet the growing demand for data scientists, machine learning engineers, and AI researchers.
Industry Collaboration and Corporate Investments
Beyond startups and academia, major corporate players are betting big on Hangzhou’s AI future. Most notably, Alibaba, headquartered in the city, has been at the forefront of this transformation. Under the leadership of Eddie Wu, the company has pledged to deepen its involvement in generative AI and has launched internal initiatives aimed at developing new AI products and services.
In parallel, Alibaba has worked to attract foreign capital to Hangzhou’s AI sector, especially in connection with the Six Little Dragons. Following Jack Ma’s involvement in a high-level business symposium with President Xi Jinping, Alibaba’s influence in shaping Hangzhou’s AI roadmap has only increased.
Other corporations and venture capital firms are also taking notice. Investment funds are flowing into AI development zones, incubators, and innovation labs across Hangzhou, helping to establish a robust support system for tech entrepreneurship and research.
Infrastructure, Challenges, and Long-Term Outlook
Despite these promising developments, Hangzhou faces several challenges that come with rapid growth. Talent retention remains a concern, as other Chinese cities like Beijing and Shenzhen compete for the same AI professionals. Furthermore, as AI technology demands powerful computing infrastructure, continued upgrades in data centers, power grids, and 5G connectivity are essential.
Additionally, navigating regulatory uncertainty and ensuring responsible AI development will be key for Hangzhou to maintain sustainable growth. The city must also remain agile in adapting to global shifts, including trade policies, technology standards, and geopolitical tensions that may impact international partnerships and supply chains.
Nonetheless, the city’s proactive governance, talent pool, and innovative momentum offer strong indicators that Hangzhou is well-positioned to become a global AI innovation hub. As China continues to push its national AI ambitions, Hangzhou stands out as a leading example of how a regional city can emerge as a technological powerhouse through visionary planning, strong public-private partnerships, and relentless innovation.
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