“Can machines think?” is a question that Alan Turing is famous for asking, as published in a paper in 1950. While the answer back then would have been a no, the same cannot be said for today because of artificial intelligence (AI).
Not only is this technology impressive, but proof that the future that humans once dreamed of is here. From electrical appliances which you can operate from countries away to robots that act and talk like humans, AI has allowed us to venture into possibilities that were unheard of.
So, let’s find out all about this technology, its definition, types, benefits, applications and examples.
The Definition Of Artificial Intelligence
AI is a part of the field of computer science, but there is more to it than meets the eye. It incorporates the development of software, which makes it easier for computer systems to carry out tasks associated with human beings.
What separates AI from other technology is its ability to imitate the cognitive intelligence of humans. This includes speech recognition, visual perception, language translation, as well as decision-making. Over the years of advancements, AI has evolved and can now be classified into different kinds.
The Different Types Of Artificial Intelligence
1. Machine Learning (ML)
A subset of AI, machine learning includes the development of statistical models and algorithms, which enable computer systems to evolve. This means that they do not need to be reprogrammed to learn a new task.
Instead, machine learning enables machines to learn from their experiences and alter their programs accordingly. Simply put, with the help of this technology, machines can also identify patterns and analyze data without any help.
2. Deep Learning
Deep learning is a branch of machine learning, which uses neural networks to assess a significant amount of data. If you have ever seen an algorithm of this technology, you already know that it is complex, mainly because it comprises a number of neural networks.
They are quick and can run pattern recognition in text, videos, and images. This is also the technology that enables the possibility of medical diagnosis for various diseases and self-driving cars.
3. Natural Language Processing (NLP)
This branch of AI is solely focused on understanding humans and processing their language. It is mostly employed when customer queries require responses, languages need to be translated, or human-like text has to be generated.
4. Computer Vision
As its name suggests, computer vision gives machines the ability to see and analyze different types of visual data, ranging from videos to images. Its algorithm is often applied to object detection, autonomous vehicles, and facial recognition.
5. Robotics
A vast majority of people are interested in this application of AI, which aids in the development of intelligent robots. They can carry out mundane tasks, like inventory management and assembly line work, or even be as cuddly and functional as Robear.
Given the wide variety of AI branches, you can easily determine just how beneficial it can be on a daily basis, as well as for business purposes. Let’s find out how this technology can make your life easier.
The Benefits Of Artificial Intelligence
1. Eliminates Human Error
If you run a business, then you are aware of how sometimes the smallest mistake by humans can cause your organization to suffer significant losses. Due to these errors, you might be delayed in project manufacturing or deliveries.
In addition, it can also be tricky to predict such errors in order to prevent them. Thus, AI ensures that it uses algorithms and data to offer the highest level of accuracy that there can be.
2. Can Take Fatal Risks
The curiosity of human beings does not know any bounds. However, there is only so much that we can risk, as we are not invincible. But machines powered by AI can be used as substitutes for the limitations of humans.
It can perform tasks that might be harmful to the well-being of humans, such as sending robots to space to learn more about it, allowing them to operate in toxic environments, or making them lead rescue operations if natural disasters strike.
3. Performs Tedious Tasks
When forced to do repetitive tasks, people may lose their productivity and motivation to carry on. That is why, AI is helpful in improving resource productivity and automating tedious tasks.
You can have it send out follow-up emails or just sort through numerous documents. Consequently, human resources in organizations are free to focus more on other tasks, which contribute to generating revenue.
4. Helps Make Quicker Decisions
AI aids companies in making quicker decisions by automating systems. These decisions are based more on data, as opposed to intuition, which makes them reliable and accurate.
Moreover, machines can refine their decisions and make necessary changes, such as incorporating changing customer tastes and preferences.
5. Offers 24X7 Availability
No matter how ambitious and determined humans are, our bodies and minds need time to rest. On the other hand, machines are not limited in this manner and can be available to consumers throughout the day.
AI-powered machines do not require any assistance from you, and they can imitate humans without getting burnt out or needing rest.
The Many Applications Of AI
There is not much that AI cannot do, and is used in all kinds of fields and organizations. Let’s take a look at some of these.
1. Healthcare
From identifying ailments and diseases to locating anomalies in diagnostic scans, AI is widely used in the healthcare industry. It is also often used to maintain and track patient records, health insurance claims and classify hospital patients efficiently.
2. Vehicles
Autonomous vehicles, such as Tesla, are known for using modern AI programs. In self-driving cars, the technology can learn and consequently improve based on newer safety practices. As a result, it can drive more safely as compared to even the most experienced humans.
In addition, self-driving vehicles can maintain quicker response times in times of crisis, all because of their computerized nature.
3. Gaming
If you are a frequent gamer, then AI can aid you in becoming an expert. This can be done by making nonplayer characters or NPCs, or gaming bots. The latter can also simulate the behaviors and emotions of human players and present a realistic front.
4. User Assistance
Siri, Cortana, and Amazon Alexa are three well-known examples of how AI can be used for user assistance purposes. As time goes on, this technology will further improve the sophistication and elegance of such programs.
5. Data Analysis
Various organizations leverage AI programs and platforms or machine learning to help understand the large amount of data they have. Even Google famously applies the capabilities of AI to help understand the billions of search patterns and user queries that it receives.
Conclusion
AI is no longer a concept of fantasies or a computerized bogeyman that will take over the world. Rather, it is a valuable software tool that is being used by individuals and businesses across the globe for their goals.
It has expanded into various types and branches, offering numerous benefits to all. But it has not stopped there and is evolving at a steady pace on a daily basis.
