Cluely: The Controversial AI Tool Revolutionizing Cheating
Startup Overview and Funding
On Sunday, Chungin “Roy” Lee, a 21-year-old entrepreneur, revealed that he has successfully secured $5.3 million in seed funding for his startup, Cluely. The investment comes from venture capital firms Abstract Ventures and Susa Ventures. Cluely is designed to offer an innovative tool powered by artificial intelligence, enabling users to “cheat” in various scenarios, including exams and job interviews.
Origins of Cluely
The inception of Cluely can be traced back to Lee’s experience at Columbia University, where he was suspended after developing an AI tool, initially named Interview Coder. This tool aimed to assist users during job interviews for software engineering positions. Following this incident, Lee and his co-founder, Neel Shanmugam, also 21 and formerly a Columbia student, decided to establish Cluely in San Francisco.
Functionality and Comparisons
Cluely provides a unique platform with capabilities to support its users in situations deemed challenging, allowing them to leverage a hidden in-browser window for assistance during crucial moments, such as interviews or tests. The company has drawn parallels between its service and tools like calculators and spellcheckers, which were once criticized for promoting dishonesty in academic and professional contexts but are now widely accepted.
Launch Video and Public Reception
The startup also released a promotional video starring Lee, where he attempts to use the AI assistant to deceive a date about his age and knowledge of art. The video has sparked a divide in public opinion, with some praising it for being attention-grabbing, while others criticized it for echoing themes present in dystopian narratives, such as those depicted in the television series “Black Mirror.”
Growth and Performance Metrics
In a promising sign for the fledgling company, Cluely reported that it surpassed $3 million in annual recurring revenue (ARR) shortly before the funding announcement. This growth suggests a robust interest in the AI-driven solution the startup offers.
Disciplinary Background of Founders
Both co-founders, Lee and Shanmugam, have faced disciplinary actions related to their project at Columbia University, ultimately leading them to drop out. The university has opted not to comment on the specifics, citing student privacy regulations.
Career Implications
Lee has claimed that he was able to secure an internship with Amazon utilizing the AI tool. However, Amazon has not commented on his specific case and maintains that candidates must agree to refrain from using unauthorized tools during their interview processes.
Industry Context
Cluely is not the only startup generating buzz in the AI sector recently. Another startup launched this month aims to replace human workers entirely, stirring significant discussion and controversy in the tech community.