Did the Pope Call AI a Threat?
In his first public remarks since being elected, Pope Leo XIV made it clear that technology will be a major focus of his leadership. He explained that his papal name was chosen in honor of Pope Leo XIII, who championed workers’ rights during the rapid industrial changes of the late 1800s. Today, Pope Leo XIV sees parallels in the digital revolution—especially in the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), which he referred to as a potential "existential threat" to humanity.
Industry Leaders Grapple with AI’s Creative Impact
While the Pope voiced global concerns, leaders in advertising were having their own discussions about AI’s growing role during the Cannes Lions Festival. Executives from companies like Google, Microsoft, and Cisco explored how AI could reshape industries, especially advertising, through automation, personalization, and efficiency.
Discussions centered around how AI is revolutionizing content creation and campaign execution. With just a few seconds of footage from a creator, AI tools can now produce dozens of ad variations almost instantly. These versions are tested quickly, and only the top-performing ads move forward, making the process faster and more cost-effective than ever before.
From Data to Deeper Meaning
The role of AI goes beyond speed and efficiency. Marketers are beginning to use AI not just to track performance, but to understand how people feel. Instead of just counting likes or scanning for keywords, AI can now analyze tone, emotion, and context in real time. This helps brands create content that feels more human and better resonates with audiences.
Balancing Innovation with the Human Touch
Even with all the buzz around automation, many professionals stress the continued importance of human input. While AI can streamline processes, it can’t replicate the nuance, empathy, and originality that people bring to creative work. There’s an ongoing conversation about how AI and humans can collaborate, rather than compete, to build smarter, more meaningful campaigns.
Preparing for an AI-Driven Future
Beyond the world of advertising, organizations across many industries are reevaluating how they operate in light of AI’s growing influence. Leadership teams are exploring how this technology will reshape everything from internal processes to staffing. As they adjust strategies and structures, one thing is clear: AI is no longer on the sidelines; it’s now at the center of the conversation.
Cate Bender, the author, is Project Coordinator of Marketing Keys