When people think about artificial technologies, many fear that “Skynet” will eventually control their lives. Relax, the terminator isn’t real and no-ones out to get you, so keep your paranoia under wraps.
However, it may surprise you to learn that you’re already using AI technology in your everyday life. If you use social media platforms, market products over the internet, or ask “Alexa” a question, you’re relying on artificial intelligence .
AI is set to become the most significant technological revolution of the 21st century. Here are five examples of AI and machine learning that already touch your life to some degree.
1. Autonomous Vehicles
Have you ever left a meeting an ordered an Uber? Then, you’re using AI technology. These tech firms use algorithms to match your request with drivers available in the immediate area. The system calculates the expected time of arrival of your driver and maps out the projected time and distance for your route, to estimate the fare.
Companies like Tesla use AI in their “autopilot” function. This algorithm relies on sensors in the car and GPS tracking to identify your route and hazards in the road, as well as navigate around other vehicles.
2. Predicting PurchasesE-commerce retailers use AI tech to identify the needs of their customers and present them with product options that they think you may be interested in purchasing. Pixel technology allows marketers to create laser-targeted marketing campaigns that increase engagement and conversion rates with their target market.
3. News Feeds
Another unknown use of artificial intelligence is the ability of a news company such as AOL, and Yahoo to write news stories. Yes, you read that right, AI programs can write news stories, without any human assistance.
AI algorithms can structure and write content such as sports recaps, weather forecasts, and even financial summaries. While AI can’t write advanced literature, it’s a matter of time until the technology replaces the need for writers altogether.
4. SecurityAnyone who’s traveled through an airport security checkpoint at an airport in the U.S or the U.K has experienced AI security systems first-hand. Facial recognition algorithms execute millions of calculations per second on all passengers passing through the airport.
They’re able to accurately identify people that present a threat to other passengers traveling through the airport. The system alerts airport security to the potential offender or criminal and pulls up their known criminal record for the airport security staff.
5. Internet of Things Devices
If you’ve ever asked Alexa the time, then you’ve used AI technology. Amazons cute, voice-activated IoT device makes living easy. With Alexa, you can sit back and shop online without lifting a finger, and you can even order a pizza from your favorite restaurant.
The adoption of IoT devices is growing at a rapid rate, and statistics show that there will be an expected 65-million devices online by 2020, that nearly ten-times the amount of people on the planet!
AI is All Around UsAdvancements in AI technology present opportunity for consumers, retailers, law enforcement, and just about any other industry you can think of online. If you’re thinking about getting involved in this burgeoning industry, take an artificial intelligence course that teaches you about the tech. One thing you can rely on is that there will be no shortage of work for you when you’re qualified in this field.