Meet the 35 Trailblazers Revolutionizing AI and Discovering its Hidden Therapeutic Powers

The Download: Meet Our AI Innovators, and What Happens When Therapists Use AI Covertly In a world where artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly woven into daily life, a new generation of innovators is pushing the boundaries of what's possible. This year's 35 Innovators Under 35 list, published by The Download, highlights 35 outstanding individuals under the age of 35 who are using technology to tackle tough problems in their respective fields. Among them is Yichao Ji, also known as Peak, a 32-year-old chief scientist at Chinese startup Butterfly Effect. In March, Ji's introduction to Manus, an AI agent developed by his company, went viral after being featured in a launch video. The product quickly spread across the Chinese internet and beyond, captivating audiences with its vision of using AI to improve mental health. A Global Phenomenon Manus is not just another AI app; it's a sophisticated tool that uses natural language processing (NLP) to engage users in conversations about their emotions and well-being. Ji's team has developed an innovative approach to NLP, which enables Manus to understand the nuances of human language and respond accordingly. "We're not just building an AI agent," Ji explained in an interview. "We're creating a tool that can have a real impact on people's lives." Manus is already being used by thousands of users worldwide, with many reporting positive outcomes from their interactions with the app. Therapy Meets AI: A Blurred Line While AI-powered mental health tools like Manus are gaining traction, concerns are rising about the use of AI in therapy. Some therapists are using AI covertly, incorporating it into their sessions without disclosing its presence to clients. This raises questions about transparency and accountability in the therapeutic relationship. "Therapists have a responsibility to be honest with their clients," said Dr. Rachel Kim, a clinical psychologist at Stanford University. "Using AI without disclosure can erode trust and undermine the therapeutic process." Implications and Future Developments The intersection of AI and mental health is a complex one, with both benefits and risks. As more therapists incorporate AI into their practice, it's essential to address concerns about transparency and accountability. In the future, we can expect to see even more innovative applications of AI in mental health. Ji's team at Butterfly Effect is already working on new projects that leverage AI to improve emotional intelligence and well-being. Next Developments The Download will continue to follow the latest developments in AI innovation and its impact on society. Stay tuned for updates on our 35 Innovators Under 35 list, including profiles of each honoree and their groundbreaking work. In the meantime, we invite readers to share their thoughts on the intersection of AI and mental health. How can we balance the benefits of AI-powered therapy with concerns about transparency and accountability? Share your comments below. *Reporting by Technologyreview.*