Artificial intelligence (AI) is expected to play a key role as the technology of the future. But what exactly is AI and how does it affect our lives?
Definition of artificial intelligence
AI refers to the ability of a machine to replicate the cognitive functions of a human, such as learning, planning and creativity.
AI enables machines to 'understand' their environment, solve problems and act towards a specific goal. The computer receives data (already prepared or collected through sensors, e.g. a camera), processes it and responds to it.
AI systems are capable of adapting their behavior, to a certain extent, by analyzing the consequences of previous actions and solving problems autonomously.
What is the importance of AI?
Some AI technologies have been around for more than 50 years. However, the evolution of computers, the availability of vast amounts of data and new algorithms have allowed the rapid development of AI, which is an EU priority.
Although it is already affecting our daily lives, AI is still expected to bring huge changes and play a central role in the digital transformation of our society.
Learn more about the threats and opportunities that AI poses and how the EP wants to regulate it.
Types of AI
- Software: virtual assistants, image analysis software, search engines, facial and speech recognition systems
- Embedded AI: robots, autonomous cars, drones, Internet of Things
Artificial intelligence in our daily lives
Some examples of AI applications are listed below.
Online shopping and advertising
AI is widely used to provide personalized recommendations, for example based on previous searches and purchases or other behaviors. AI also plays an extremely important role in the retail sector, as it is used for product optimization, stock planning, logistics...etc.
Web search
Search engines provide results based on the huge amount of data that users enter on the internet.
Personal digital assistants
Smart phones (smartphones) use artificial intelligence to provide optimized and personalized settings to their users. The virtual assistant acts as the user's personal secretary: answering questions, providing recommendations, reminding appointments. It is also an online conversationalist that adapts to the individual characteristics of a particular person, taking into account the user's environment, the range of his/her interests and habits.
Automatic translations
Machine translation and subtitling software, based on either written or spoken language, uses artificial intelligence to provide and improve translations. Also, Text-to-speech technology that enables natural reading of text using breathes, stops and emotion while reading. Various software companies are manufacturing TTS software.
Smart homes, cities and infrastructure
Smart thermostats analyze our behavior to save energy, while smart cities rely on intelligent traffic regulation systems to improve connectivity and reduce congestion.
Cars
Although autonomous vehicles are not yet part of our everyday life, cars are already equipped with intelligent safety systems that make use of artificial intelligence. The EU, for example, has contributed to the financing of VI-DAS automatic sensors that detect potential danger and accidents.
Navigation systems are largely based on artificial intelligence.
Cybersecurity
Artificial intelligence systems can help identify and respond to cyber attacks and threats based on a continuous input of data.
Other examples of the use of artificial intelligence
AI is set to transform all aspects of the economy and our daily lives. Below are just a few examples.
Health
Researchers are studying how AI can be used to analyze health data and detect patterns that could lead to new scientific discoveries and improve individual diagnostic tests.
For example, researchers developed an intelligent program that identifies heart attack cases in emergency calls, and does so faster than specialists in the emergency call centre. Another example is the EU co-funded KConnect project that enables efficient search for medical information by analyzing medical texts and developing search services.
Transportation
AI can enhance the safety, speed and efficiency of rail traffic by minimizing rail friction and enabling autonomous driving.
Manufacturing sector
AI can lead to the rapid development of the manufacturing sector and the design of smart factories in Europe through, inter alia, the use of robotics and early failure prediction and maintenance of mechanical structures.
Food and agriculture
AI can be harnessed to build more sustainable food systems: in particular, it can ensure the production of healthier food by minimizing the use of Fertilisers, herbicides and irrigation, support productivity and reduce environmental impacts. The use of robotics can also help remove weeds and reduce pesticide use.
Public administration and services
Thanks to a wide range of data and the ability to recognize patterns, AI allows for early warning of natural disasters, enabling adequate preparation and mitigation.
