UPDATE: In a surprising twist, Google’s Gemini AI is stepping into the world of horse racing, attempting to assist users in making betting decisions. During a recent trip to the Saratoga Race Course on July 15, 2023, the AI showcased its capabilities, but not without mixed results.
As the ground shook beneath the hooves of racing horses, excitement buzzed in the air. A user, unfamiliar with betting and racing, turned to Gemini on the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 for guidance. With a quick snap of the camera and a simple question, Gemini identified the location and engaged with the user about the races.
When asked how to pick a winning horse, Gemini advised, “Look at the horse’s past performance, the jockey’s experience, and even the horse’s appearance.” This initial analysis laid the groundwork for what would follow.
Pointing the camera at a screen displaying race odds, the user asked, “Which of these horses is going to win?” To their surprise, Gemini confidently suggested that horse number 5 had the best chance, with odds of 8 to 5, and horse number 9 as a strong contender at 8 to 1. Ultimately, the user placed a $5 bet on horse number 5, only to face disappointment as it did not win.
As the day progressed, Gemini’s responses became more reserved. The AI redirected the user to the National Racing Association website for real-time updates. However, when asked about the next race, Gemini quickly pointed out horse number 2 as the favorite, leading to a small victory of $16.50 when the horse placed in the top three.
Despite this minor success, frustrations grew as subsequent bets did not yield favorable results. The user noted that even with Gemini’s insightful analyses, the AI struggled to maintain a consistent winning streak.
As the afternoon wore on, the user engaged with Gemini about horse Smooth Breeze, receiving detailed insights into the horse’s performance history. While the user attempted a Trifecta bet, ultimately losing, the experience underscored the challenges of relying on AI for betting advice.
The experiment raises critical questions about the effectiveness of AI in high-stakes situations and the evolving role of technology in everyday decision-making. As gambling becomes increasingly digital, innovations like Gemini could change the betting landscape—but results remain mixed.
In an era where AI is becoming ubiquitous, the outcome of this experience serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of horse racing and the need for caution, especially for novice gamblers. As AI tools develop, users may find themselves navigating a complex relationship between technology and luck.
Stay tuned for more updates on this evolving story and the future of AI in sports betting.
