Human level artificial intelligence may be on the brink of discovery.
Several of the world’s leading scientists certainly believe so, with some predicting its arrival as early as 2030.
Probably closer to 2030 to 2040 imo. 2060 would be a linear extrapolation, but progress is exponential. https://t.co/e6gyOVcMZG
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) June 6, 2017
It’s uncertain as to whether this will beckon the end of the world. Right now all we know for certain is that we’re reaping the benefits of what’s been created so far.
Here’s a few areas being revolutionised by smart computers right now.
Medicine
Imagine a future where robotic doctors and surgeons are capable of doing a much better job than us! Considering the sheer volume of information medical staff must remember, this might come sooner than we expect! Machines trained in medicine remove the risk of human flaw, such as biased diagnosis and stressed surgeons. However at present they have major shortcomings in terms of patient care and empathy- maybe someday they’ll catch up!
Cybersecurity
New AI algorithms use machine learning to adapt over time. This trains system responses to risks they’ve encountered before. Their successes are more precise than mere humans, and allow IT technicians to focus elsewhere. Steve Grobman, CTO at McAfee, agrees with this theory. He doesn’t think AI will make cybersecurity experts obsolete, but will reduce their numbers and boost effectiveness.
Literature
Over the past few months online, a trend has emerged where AI gets programmed to write whole excerpts of texts using the tone and style of the originals. Successful sequels to the Game of Thrones and Harry Potter series’ have emerged, often with hilarious consequences. However, one book written by a computer in 2016 named The Day A Computer Writes A Novel, or “Konpyuta ga shosetsu wo kaku hi” in Japanese became a huge success. It went on to almost win the Nikkei Hoshi Shinichi Literary Award.
Transportation
Self driving cars have increased in popularity as the once outlandish idea becomes a reality. Promising to eradicate road deaths by taking control away from drivers, these cars use radar, lasers, GPS and more to navigate their journeys. Companies such as Uber and Google have gotten behind the invention, developing their own prototypes. However, not everyone is impressed. Reports have emerged this week of Californian road users crashing into the cars on purpose!
Retail
You thought tapping your bank card at the till made paying easy? Wait until all it takes is a face scan! AI software called Face++ has been developed in China which uses deep learning to recognise faces with extreme accuracy. The technology has already been used for secure mobile payments and to confirm the identity of drivers working for ride-hailing companies. Soon, the company hopes to allow for goods to be purchased too. At present, it’s only possible in China, as they have a large database of ID card photos.
Dating
Perhaps the most Black Mirror- esque possibility of them all? Sean Rad, the chairman of Tinder, eluded to the possibility of the dating app becoming AI led. It was at a tech conference called the Start-Up Grind last year where the comments were made. He said that “in five years time, Tinder might be so good, you might be like ‘Hey Siri, what’s happening tonight?’ And Tinder might pop up and say ‘There’s someone down the street you might be attracted to. She’s also attracted to you. She’s free tomorrow night. We know you both like the same band, and it’s playing – would you like us to buy you tickets?’… and you have a match”.
Social
Speaking of dating, maybe it’s the AI prototypes themselves that we’ll fall in love with? This idea has been explored constantly over the years in science fiction. Remember Her (2014) and Ex Machina (2014)? Both explored the dangers of developing feelings for AI. Regardless, I’m looking forward to going on nights out with my new robot friends, I heard they’re great at dancing.
