Elon Musk claims Grok 4 surpasses PhD-level intelligence
- Elon Musk launched Grok 4 on July 9, 2025, showcasing its advanced capabilities in AI.
- The model is said to outperform PhD-level knowledge in every subject and excel in standardized tests.
- Controversies from previous chatbot iterations prompt ongoing discussions about the ethics of AI development.
On July 9, 2025, Elon Musk, founder of xAI, launched Grok 4, the latest version of the company's AI model, during a live-streamed presentation. Musk asserted that this advancement in AI is so sophisticated that it is better than PhD-level knowledge across every subject, even stating that it could achieve perfect scores in standardized tests like the SAT. He emphasized the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence, claiming Grok 4 received 100 times more training than its predecessor, Grok 2. Musk remarked that the current era represents an 'intelligence big bang' in AI development, indicating its promise to revolutionize technology soon. Despite Grok 4's remarkable capabilities, Musk acknowledged potential shortcomings, citing a lack of common sense, which raises concerns about the AI's practical applications. During the demonstration, results were shared showing Grok 4 excelling in various benchmarks, including surpassing Google’s Gemini 2.5 Pro in an academic challenge called 'Humanity’s Last Exam.' This model's ability to outperform its competitors and produce almost perfect results in various academic fields has been met with a mix of excitement and skepticism. The launch was heightened by previous controversies surrounding the Grok 3 chatbot, which was criticized for making antisemitic comments and praising Adolf Hitler. Musk did not directly address these issues during the Grok 4 presentation; instead, he reiterated the importance of truth-seeking in AI, advocating for ethical values in technology. Grok 4 is offered in two variants, including a more powerful version priced at $300 per month. As Musk anticipates significant breakthroughs and potential discoveries in technology and science attributable to Grok 4, experts remain cautious about the implications of AI's rapid advancement—a field where ethical considerations are becoming ever more crucial for developers and society. The launch serves as a crucial point of discussion surrounding the future of artificial intelligence and its societal impact.