Why Google fell behind in the AI race

Why Google fell behind in the AI race

July 9, 2026 · 9 min

About this episode

The episode discusses why Google's AI, Gemini, lacks recognition compared to competitors like Claude and ChatGPT, focusing on the challenges faced by Google DeepMind's CEO, Demis Hassabis.

When it comes to AI, Google’s Gemini does not have the same household recognition that Claude and ChatGPT do. One big explanation: the innovator’s dilemma. We explain how Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis is trying to fight a lumbering company’s constraints to build AI superintelligence. Sebastian Mallaby’s book is The Infinity Machine: Demis Hassabis, DeepMind, and the Quest for Superintelligence Fact checking by Sierra Juarez . Your Next Listen — The inventor’s dilemma Connect with The Indicator — Sign up for The Indicator’s brand new newsletter — Buy the Planet Money book — Find our socials, YouTube and more ! — For sponsor-free episodes, subscribe to NPR+ See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

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Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Google, DeepMind

Books & works: The Infinity Machine: Demis Hassabis, DeepMind, and the Quest for Superintelligence

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