19-05-2025

“Rather than artificial intelligence, it would be more accurate to speak of augmented intelligence. Humans remain in control and determine how to use these tools. This perspective helps to clear up many misunderstandings.”

This is the view expressed by Alberto Tripi, President of the Almaviva Group and Special Advisor on Artificial Intelligence for Confindustria, in an interview with Nicoletta Picchio for Il Sole 24 Ore.

“Adopting augmented intelligence isn’t optional. We can't do without it, or we risk up falling behind. The whole world is heading in this direction.”

When it comes to Europe, “Italy isn’t as far behind as it may appear,” says Tripi. “In fact, I’d like to emphasize that one of our strengths as a country is that we know how to navigate chaos. We have a strong and innate ability to adapt to change. In January, Almawave, one of our companies, launched Velvet, a generative AI model developed right here in Italy.

All you have to do is look at our export figures to see that Italian products are highly competitive. Our country is poised to become a leader in the use of augmented intelligence. Systems are already being introduced in the healthcare sector, helping to reduce waiting lists for example, as well as in PA and transportation.
AI can help optimize the purchasing process through the use of databases, improve logistics, enhance predictive maintenance analytics, manage energy use, etc. It can even improve safety in the workplace. We have one of the most competitive industrial sectors in the world, but we can't afford to stand still. The world is moving forward on this trajectory and we need to keep pushing boundaries.”

As for the need to invest more in research and innovation, “It only takes a few billion to kickstart a powerful flywheel. Whatever companies and the country invest in, is compensated by the positive results.”

Is there a risk of over-regulation? 'We need to be careful not to smother evolution, but it’s also important to strike a balance between technological advancement and potential deviations. There’s already an active dialogue with institutions, including the Vatican. It’s a constantly changing landscape, so the rules will need to be continuously revised. We have to find a balance.”