The 80-Year Bet: Why Naveen Rao Is Rebuilding the Computer from Scratch

In this a16z podcast episode, Matt Bornstein interviews Naveen Rao, CEO of Unconventional AI, about his new venture focused on analog computing for AI. Rao discusses the limitations of digital computing in achieving true AI, particularly regarding energy efficiency and the representation of time and causality. He explains the potential of analog computing to better mimic the human brain's efficiency and adaptability, addressing the growing energy demands of AI. Rao envisions a future where analog and digital computing coexist, each suited for different types of workloads, and shares his motivations and the types of talent he seeks to join Unconventional AI in this ambitious endeavor.

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The a16z Show

Introduction to Unconventional AI and the Need for a New Computing Paradigm

Digital vs. Analog Computing and the Energy Crisis in AI

Trade-offs and the Potential of Analog Systems for AI

Causality, Industry Context, and Motivation

Team Building, Advice for Young Professionals, and Generational Impact

The 80-Year Bet: Why Naveen Rao Is Rebuilding the Computer from Scratch

The a16z Show

00:00Introduction to Unconventional AI and the Need for a New Computing Paradigm

Introduction to Unconventional AI and the Need for a New Computing Paradigm

05:06Digital vs. Analog Computing and the Energy Crisis in AI

Digital vs. Analog Computing and the Energy Crisis in AI

12:07Trade-offs and the Potential of Analog Systems for AI

Trade-offs and the Potential of Analog Systems for AI

17:26Causality, Industry Context, and Motivation

Causality, Industry Context, and Motivation

23:56Team Building, Advice for Young Professionals, and Generational Impact

Team Building, Advice for Young Professionals, and Generational Impact