Ambient Intelligence-Artificial Intelligence + Internet of Things
Research: Ellen Greene
Even as virtual assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Home grow in popularity, the lack of contextual understanding among these devices limits their utility. But thanks to advancements in artificial intelligence and Internet of Things, Ambient Intelligence (Am.I.) begins to create contextual awareness.
Joining computational power with communication technologies results
in environments that engage with people. The key characteristics of Am.I. include awareness of the presence of individuals, recognition of the individuals’ identities, awareness of contexts (weather, traffic, news), recognition of activities, and adaptation to the users’ changing needs. Am.I. systems collect information through physical sensors on devices or in the environment itself — whether it’s radio-frequency identification, GPS, or audio/image data — and then communicate with the environment through automatic actions (robots, automated movements, etc.) to complete their task or service.
The auto industry is exploring the use of Am.I. in cars to create seamless interaction between the driver, the car, and the environment. Currently, sensors like blind-spot detectors and lane-change assist operate parallel to voice assistants. But as these technologies mature, they will operate in tandem as Am.I.
AI-optimized silicon chips are increasingly available on the market, creating potential for any IoT device to be capable of Am.I. The nation’s changing demographics also drive this technology. Ambient Assisted Living technology could help seniors live longer at home, independently, and allow health professionals or distant loved ones to check in remotely. In combination with the advancements in voice technology and integration of voice assistants in homes across the nation, we may see the rise of “Machine Talk,” which can take the form of personal assistants/home robots, or simply machines that communicate intelligently with users.
In order to have widespread adoption, the focus of Am.I. advancements must be around the needs of the consumer, as ordinary people will be using this technology. To increase adoption of Am.I., the technology must be unobtrusive and reliable — engaging as soon as the user steps into the environment. Data privacy is of paramount concern, as people may be reluctant to trust Am.I. technology in intimate spaces.
Entertainment
In entertainment, Am.I. devices and personal assistants could become media curators. These personal assistants or machine talking “bots” can connect to all your media accounts and know your favorite content, as well as make recommendations based on your schedule or mood. A user’s voice serves as the remote, delivering content wherever and whenever it’s desired.
News and Information
Am.I. opens up the possibility for any object to become a source of information. Coffeemakers could partner with CNN or NPR to deliver daily briefings in the morning. Or, as someone leaves their home, an Am.I. sensor equipped with a speaker could play a weather forecast and suggest bringing an umbrella. Am.I. devices could also sense a change in schedule and deliver abbreviated content based on a person’s busy morning. Am.I. will allow people to receive information when they need it, at the most convenient time or relevant context.
Positioning
With Am.I., nearly every connected device in the home could become a retail point of service. Audiences that hear or see advertisements can respond instantly with “Add to my cart” or “Send me more information.” In addition, Am.I. could also transform physical stores, with brands learning about customers’ needs and preferences during the shoppin experience and targeting them in real-time.
Compelling startups
RESONANCE, Florence, Italy
A predictive, context-awareness software development kit that analyzes and learns from user habits how to engage at the right moment, with the right content.
WRNCH, Montreal
A system that teaches computers to read body language by processing 2D video and outputting 3D motion and behavior data, enabling real-time human-machine experience.
DUO, New York
An AI-powered assistant via a home computer with a mirror display adjusts to you and your space. Users can talk to the assistant, play music, stream videos, and control lights and other systems in your home.
Additional Resources:
- AI-powered Ambient Computing is Just Getting Started / Venture Beat
- Ambient Intelligence: The Ultimate IoT Use Cases — IoT for All / Medium
