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Hello reader,
Time recently named “The Architects of AI” its “Person of the Year” for 2025.
Not AI itself, thankfully.
It’s not the first time the publication has given the title to multiple people. And perhaps it’s only fair that this group gets the distinction, given the AI-fueled FOMO running through the tech industry.
The cover photo prominently features eight of the biggest names in AI. Well, unless you’re Fei-Fei Li, the so-called “godmother of AI” who appears only half-visible on the cover. If I remember correctly, the iconic “Lunch Atop a Skyscraper” photo that the cover is based on wasn’t cropped that awkwardly.
Weird framing aside, the selection shows that AI can’t be the Person of the Year – and it certainly can’t shine without humans behind it.
This is also evident in the approach of QuantumByte, which I recently profiled. The startup acknowledges that AI-generated code isn’t perfect, and it keeps a team of human engineers on standby to help inexperienced users refine their AI-built apps.
Image credit: Arsal Ysfin with the help of AI
Meanwhile, OpenAI brought out its latest horse in the AI race last week with the launch of GPT-5.2, which the company touts as its most capable model for “professional knowledge work.” That’s based on the score it achieved on a benchmark that measures model performance across 44 different occupations – which itself was created by OpenAI.
But the model isn’t designed to replace humans in those occupations. OpenAI says GPT 5.2 works best “when paired with human oversight,” helping professionals tackle complex tasks faster.
These stories point to one thing: tech companies are racing to make AI work better with humans.
As we move closer to 2026, what should we expect from the AI sector? If you have any bold predictions, send them to editors@techinasia.com. We might publish them, or at least marvel at your optimism.
As for me, I’m simply praying for continued human relevance in 2026. With AI on our side (and not replacing us), we might just pull it off.
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