What is Artificial intelligence?
Artificial intelligence is the simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, especially computer systems. These processes include learning (the acquisition of information and rules for using the information), reasoning (using the rules to reach approximate or definite conclusions), and self-correction.
The term Artificial intelligence AI was coined by John McCarthy, an American computer scientist, in 1956 at the Dartmouth Conference where the discipline was born.
Why AI has gained prominence?
Today, artificial intelligence is an umbrella term that encompasses everything from robotic process automation to actual robotics.
It has gained prominence recently due, in part, to big data, or the increase in speed, size and variety of data businesses are now collecting.
AI can perform tasks such as identifying patterns in the data more efficiently than humans, enabling businesses to gain more insight out of their data.
What is “Artificial” about Intelligence?
In simple terms, it is when a machine performs an “intelligent” task. It is the opposite of what we call “natural intelligence” of humans and other animals. It’s an area of computer science whose goal is to invent machines that can work and react like humans; a science of making computers, apps, machines, and devices do things that require “human intelligence.”
A subset of AI called Machine Learning is also taking AI to the next level. Machine Learning provides systems or machines the ability to learn and improve without being explicitly programmed. In other words, the capability of machines to learn for themselves including the ability to analyze extensive volumes of data to identify patterns and predict outcomes without the need for human intervention.
Is AI Pushing Humanity Forward?
The overall windfall of artificial intelligence is to promote an effortless way of living by trying to mimic human decisions and actions without natural human shortcomings, such as fatigue, emotion, and limited time.
Today, artificial intelligence covers a variety of technologies and tools, some are time-tested, and others are relatively new. Cyber fraud detection, virtual assistants, facial recognition, self-driving cars and smart home devices are some applications of AI that is massively changing how people live and work.
Particular applications of AI include expert systems, speech recognition and machine vision.
What are the different types of AI?
Weak AI – also known as narrow AI, is an AI system that is designed and trained for a particular task. Virtual personal assistants, such as Apple’s Siri, are a form of weak AI.
Strong AI – also known as artificial general intelligence, is an AI system with generalized human cognitive abilities so that when presented with an unfamiliar task, it has enough intelligence to find a solution.
What are the different applications of artificial intelligence?
AI in healthcare. The biggest bets are on improving patient outcomes and reducing costs. Companies are applying machine learning to make better and faster diagnoses than humans. One of the best known healthcare technologies is IBM Watson. It understands natural language and is capable of responding to questions asked of it.
AI in business. Robotic process automation is being applied to highly repetitive tasks normally performed by humans. Machine learning algorithms are being integrated into analytics and CRM platforms to uncover information on how to better serve customers. Chatbots have been incorporated into websites to provide immediate service to customers.
AI in education. AI can automate grading, giving educators more time. AI can assess students and adapt to their needs, helping them work at their own pace. AI tutors can provide additional support to students, ensuring they stay on track. AI could change where and how students learn, perhaps even replacing some teachers.
AI in finance. AI applied to personal finance applications, such as Mint or Turbo Tax, is upending financial institutions. Applications such as these could collect personal data and provide financial advice.
AI in law. The discovery process, sifting through of documents, in law is often overwhelming for humans. Automating this process is a better use of time and a more efficient process. Startups are also building question-and-answer computer assistants that can sift programmed-to-answer questions by examining the taxonomy and ontology associated with a database.
AI in manufacturing. This is an area that has been at the forefront of incorporating robots into the workflow. Industrial robots used to perform single tasks and were separated from human workers, but as the technology advanced that changed.
