What is AI Washing? 

• Definition: AI washing refers to the practice of overstating or misrepresenting the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in products, services, or business strategies. 
• Origin: The term "AI washing" is derived from "greenwashing," where companies make misleading claims about their environmental impact. 

Key Points: 

• AI washing involves companies claiming to use AI in their offerings when, in reality, the use of AI might be superficial or non-existent. 
• It is often used by startups to secure funding by falsely presenting themselves as AI-driven. 

Examples of AI Washing: 

1. Mislabelling Automation as AI: Treating automated processes as AI when they are not based on AI technology. 
2. Superficial AI Claims: Businesses making exaggerated statements about AI capabilities in their products or services. 
3. Buzzwords like "AI-Driven": Using buzzwords and phrases like "AI-driven" without substantial AI-based technology backing it up. 

Why is AI Washing a Concern? 

• Venture capitalists and investors are concerned because AI washing misleads investors and customers, creating a false perception of a company's technological advancement. 
• It hinders genuine AI innovation by making it harder for investors to distinguish between real AI applications and mere marketing strategies.