Opportunities and Challenges in the Era of Large Models: Technology Integration and Industry Leap

At the 2024 Inclusion·Bund Conference main forum, Shen Xiangyang, Chair of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Board of Trustees and foreign member of the U.S. National Academy of Engineering, delivered a keynote titled “Opportunities and Challenges in the Era of Large Models: Technology Integration, Industry Leap.” He highlighted the evolution of human‑computer interaction—from graphical interfaces to search, recommendation, and dialogue—and explained how the development of large models will further accelerate this iteration.

Shen emphasized that AI offers a new context for human‑technology symbiosis, pointing to the convergence of AI and IA (Intelligent Augmentation). IA focuses on enhancing human capabilities rather than replacing humans, underscoring a collaborative relationship between people and AI.

He cited John Markoff’s book *Machine of Loving Grace*, noting that the true winners in decades of computer development are those who improve human‑machine interaction. He affirmed that the goal of AI development should always return to its original purpose, which he calls IA.

Regarding the currently hot topic of AI agents, Shen stated that the journey from vision to implementation must start with user needs, deeply understand model capabilities, and construct workflows where AI participates intensively. He warned that the AI‑agent era will not be a sudden, magical model replacing all workflows; instead, it will involve continuous technical, engineering, and market refinement to deliver services that exceed expectations.

Shen also highlighted that the new paradigm of human‑AI coexistence and the industry adoption of large models reflect a closed loop between technology and business, where genuine innovation can change the world. He stressed the importance of AI governance and the creation of responsible AI, calling for new governance frameworks and systems that can address the diverse conditions of different countries and regions from a global perspective.