What are the different types of AI? What are the domains within AI and their real-world use?

RetroFuturist
5 min readOct 18, 2023

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AI, or Artificial Intelligence, refers to the simulation of human intelligence in machines or computer systems. It involves creating algorithms and systems that enable computers to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence. AI systems are designed to mimic various aspects of human intelligence, including problem-solving, learning, reasoning, perception, language understanding, and decision-making. AI can be categorized into Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), Artificial Narrow Intelligence (ANI), and Artificial Superintelligence (ASI), depending on its different levels of capability.

Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), also known as ‘strong AI’ or ‘full AI,’ is a theoretical form of artificial intelligence that matches human intelligence in many ways. It can perform various tasks independently, learn like humans, understand emotions, and make decisions on its own. Artificial Superintelligence (ASI), on the other hand, implies a level of intelligence and capability that could potentially have profound implications for society, in which AI systems surpass human intelligence in all aspects. Currently, AGI and ASI are more of a science fiction idea, and we haven’t built them yet.

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Today, we often encounter ‘Narrow AI’ or specialized AI systems. These AI systems are experts in specific tasks because they’re trained for them using machine learning. For instance, they can understand language, recognize images, or excel in gaming. However, unlike AGI, which can do many things like humans, Narrow AI has limitations. It’s excellent within its defined roles and is used in many real-life situations.

In the pursuit of creating computer systems or machines capable of performing tasks that typically require human intelligence, multiple domains must be developed to enable machines to mimic human abilities. Machine Learning serves as a subset of AI, with its primary focus being the development of algorithms and statistical models. These models empower computer systems to learn and enhance their performance on specific tasks through experience or data without the need for explicit programming. Deep Learning, on the other hand, represents a specialized subfield within Machine Learning. It harnesses the power of artificial neural networks with multiple layers (known as deep neural networks) to process and analyze complex, high-dimensional data efficiently.

In the world of technology and artificial intelligence, OpenAI’s GPT-4 has sparked significant enthusiasm this year. It’s renowned for its remarkable abilities in understanding and generating human-like text, particularly when it comes to written content. This specialized form of AI finds its application in various fields, including content creation, chatbot interactions, language translation, and beyond. GPT-4’s knack for grasping and crafting text akin to human language has established it as an invaluable asset in the realm of AI-powered solutions.

The diverse domains within AI to achieve specific purpose. Designed by Research Trends

Online retailers, such as Amazon, use recommendation engines powered by machine learning algorithms, including deep learning models. These algorithms analyze a user’s browsing and purchase history to suggest products that are likely to be of interest. This personalization enhances the shopping experience and increases sales. Amazon’s Alexa is another instance of Narrow AI, functioning as a virtual personal assistant. Alexa understands voice commands, manages smart home devices, and provides information, showcasing its proficiency in natural language understanding and task execution.

IBM Watson uses Natural Language Processing (NLP) to understand and work with human language. It can analyze large amounts of text data, answer questions in natural language, power chatbots and virtual assistants, translate languages, determine sentiment in text, categorize text into topics, summarize content, and understand the context and meaning of words and phrases in sentences. These NLP capabilities find applications in diverse industries, making Watson a valuable tool for processing and deriving insights from text data. IBM Watson for Oncology is a healthcare solution that utilizes expert systems and extensive medical knowledge to assist oncologists in making treatment decisions for cancer patients. It analyzes patient data, medical records, research papers, and clinical guidelines to provide personalized treatment recommendations based on each patient’s specific case and the latest medical evidence.

Netflix employs AI, machine learning, and deep learning to enhance user experience. AI powers its recommendation system, using machine learning to analyze user preferences and viewing history, suggesting personalized content. Deep learning, specifically neural networks, refines recommendations by capturing complex patterns in user behavior. Netflix utilizes Computer Vision, a branch of AI, for image and video analysis. This technology helps maintain content quality by automatically detecting issues and ensures content is tagged with relevant metadata. Additionally, it enhances the user experience by selecting attractive video thumbnails and analyzing content to make personalized recommendations based on visual preferences.

Tesla, an American electric vehicle company, seamlessly integrates various AI domains into its electric vehicles and autonomous driving technology, with the core development of autonomous driving features like Autopilot and Full Self-Driving, heavily relying on deep learning and computer vision. These domains enable Tesla’s vehicles to process real-time data from cameras, sensors, and radar, leading to safe and efficient autonomous driving. In addition, Tesla employs machine learning and computer vision in its driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance, enhancing driver safety and convenience. The navigation system benefits from machine learning for real-time traffic updates, route optimization, and predictive route suggestions. AI algorithms play a crucial role in Tesla’s battery management, ensuring optimal battery health and efficiency. Tesla’s energy products, such as solar panels and energy storage solutions, leverage AI for energy optimization and grid integration.

AI has become an integral part of our modern existence, weaving itself seamlessly into various facets of our lives. Its presence enhances convenience, streamlines processes, and introduces innovative solutions across a wide range of fields. As technology progresses, AI’s influence continues to grow, fundamentally altering how we approach everyday tasks, from communication and entertainment to healthcare and transportation. We stand at the forefront of an AI-driven era, where the possibilities are boundless, and its transformative impact on our world is undeniable.

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RetroFuturist

Reimagining the future from the perspective of the past.