Is Your Digital Assistant Devious?

Posted by Social Science Research Network

Is Your Digital Assistant Devious?

Ariel Ezrachi (University of Oxford) & Maurice E. Stucke (University of Tennessee)

Abstract:       Who wouldn’t want a personal butler? Technological developments have moved us closer to that dream. The rise of digital personal assistants has already changed the way we shop, interact and surf the web. Technological developments and artificial intelligence are likely to further accelerate this trend. Indeed, all of the leading online platforms are currently investing in this technology. Apple’s Siri, Amazon’s Alexa, Facebook’s M, and Google Assistant can quickly provide us with information, if we so desire, and anticipate and fulfill certain needs and requests. Yet, could they also reduce our welfare? Could they limit competition and transfer our wealth to the providers? And if so, can competition law safeguard our welfare while enabling these technological developments?