Cluely, an early stage technology startup focused on a world-class travel technology, has recently garnered national attention. They boast of their secret in-browser popup as being “undetectable” and that it can allow users to cheat in job interviews and tests. The app quickly went viral as users posted their experiences, leading to broader conversations about the ethical issues posed by this type of technology. With increased criticism, Cluely has pivoted its messaging. Today, its all-in-one platform is designed to assist users before, during, and after sales calls/meetings.
Founded by Chungin “Roy” Lee, Cluely has to date raised an impressive $5.3 million to further develop its product while working on hardware innovations. This change comes on the heels of a vigorous public protest against the company’s original promotional plans. That’s why many, including outspoken industry critic Adrian Aamodt, have called those tactics “unethical.”
In response to backlash, Cluely has scrubbed explicit references to cheating on academic assessments and job interviews from its website and manifesto. While this is a positive change, the company still insists that its product can be adapted to help cheat in any context. Cluely has some great things in store moving forward! This half-baked plan includes creating groundbreaking new hardware solutions, such as smart glasses and brain chips, to outwit today’s most sophisticated anti-cheating software.
Cluely’s heavy-handed tactics have ruffled feathers among other competing startups such as Validia and Proctaroo. Validia argues that its software can identify users of Cluely’s app, activating alarms when it is being used. In the same vein, Proctaroo says it has created machine-learning-based technology to detect Cluely users while they’re taking exams or participating in interviews.
In the face of such criticisms, Lee is undeterred by the firestorm on Cluely and other proposed anti-cheating tools from the competition. He contends that these tools are ineffective. He likens them to the countless unsuccessful efforts to stem cheating in the video gaming industry over the decades.
“Ultimately, we see a future where everyone uses AI to its utmost potential, and that means planting in large, specific markets, and expanding out from there,” – Chungin “Roy” Lee
As Cluely progresses with its plans to redefine its messaging and target larger markets, Lee acknowledges the potential for hardware innovation but remains open-ended about the specifics.
“Whether it’s smart glasses, a transparent glass screen overlay, a recording necklace, or even a brain chip, we’re not sure,” – Chungin “Roy” Lee
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