Roy Lee on AI Detection & Cluely | No Sweat Cheating

Cluely and the Controversy Surrounding its "Undetectability"

Cluely, a recently established AI startup, has gained significant attention due to its assertion that its technology offers “undetectability,” leading to claims it can be used to “cheat on everything.” The platform operates by utilizing a concealed in-browser window to analyze online interactions.

Co-founder's Suspension and Initial Claims

Roy Lee, a co-founder of the company, faced suspension from Columbia University after publicly stating he employed Cluely – initially known as Interview Coder – to gain an unfair advantage during a coding assessment for a developer position at Amazon.

The Emergence of Truely as a Countermeasure

In response, Patrick Shen, another student at Columbia University, developed Truely. This product is specifically designed to identify individuals who are utilizing Cluely or similar applications to circumvent fair practices during online meetings and interviews.

Cluely's Response to Detection Efforts

Despite the creation of Truely, Lee remained unconcerned. He communicated to TechCrunch that the ability to remain undetected is not central to Cluely’s functionality.

Lee characterized the “invisibility function” as a supplementary feature, noting that many businesses choose to deactivate it due to potential legal ramifications.

Shifting Marketing Strategies

Since receiving $15 million in Series A funding from Andreessen Horowitz last month, Cluely has begun to adjust its marketing approach. The company’s slogan has evolved from the provocative “cheat on everything” to “Everything You Need. Before You Ask. … This feels like cheating.”

Rage-Bait Marketing and Perceptions

Cluely’s initial marketing strategies have been labeled as “rage-bait marketing.” It appears the company inadvertently fostered the perception of its technology as a tool for dishonest practices.

Ambitious Goals: Replacing ChatGPT

Lee has articulated a far more expansive vision for Cluely. He aims for the platform to become a ubiquitous resource, replacing the need to visit chatgpt.com.

“Our goal is to create a world where you instead reach for Cluely every time you would reach for chatgpt.com,” Lee stated.

Cluely's Unique Capabilities

According to Lee, Cluely offers the same core functionality as ChatGPT. However, it distinguishes itself by also possessing the ability to analyze the user’s screen content and process audio input.

• Cluely analyzes online conversations using a hidden browser window.
• Truely is designed to detect the use of applications like Cluely.
• The company received $15 million in Series A funding from Andreessen Horowitz.