Artificial intelligence (AI) conjures up images of sentient computer overlords in sci-fi films. In reality, AI technology improves business performance and productivity by automating tasks and making sense of data that would be impossible for humans to do. AI also enhances human intelligence, augmenting and expanding people’s capabilities. However, some fear that the technology could eventually replace humans or threaten basic human values.

As the demand for AI increases, the technology is evolving at a rapid pace. Some experts believe that the evolution of AI will soon accelerate beyond the abilities of humans. While some believe that the future of AI is a dystopia, others see it as a utopia that will transform many aspects of life and work.

There are a wide variety of different applications for AI, including machine learning, natural language processing and image recognition. In business, it is most often used to make recommendations, assist with data analysis and provide automated customer support. Some of the most powerful AI technologies are deep neural networks, which mimic the structure and functions of the human brain. This type of AI can recognize patterns and anomalies in large amounts of data, including text, images, audio and video.

The first phase of AI development involved building and implementing machine-learning algorithms to perform specific tasks. A popular example is tic-tac-toe: The program uses a pixel pattern to determine whether the player has won or lost, based on a probability calculation. While these types of programs aren’t fully AI, they can perform complex mathematical calculations quickly and accurately.

Some organizations rely on generative AI to create content. This technology can generate text or other output that sounds very convincing. It can be used to help automate business processes or create product prototypes. However, this can pose reputational and legal risks if the output is erroneous or offensive, or if it is used for unethical or illegal purposes.

Narrow AI is a subset of AI that enables machines to perform specific, predetermined functions. Narrow AI can learn from and replicate the behavior of expert or professional users in a particular field. Examples include medical diagnostics, information retrieval and voice or handwriting recognition.

In addition, Narrow AI can be reactive, meaning it responds to real-time input, such as data from sensors or cameras. It can also be limited memory, which means it relies on stored data to make decisions. The final phase of AI is Theory of Mind, which enables the machine to consider subjective elements in its decisionmaking.

Narrow AI is growing in popularity, and it can be a valuable tool for companies that want to take advantage of its potential. The key is to understand how the technology works and how it can be applied in your business. Ultimately, you’ll find that AI is an enabler of innovation and competitive advantage. You can start small by applying AI to a simple project, such as tic-tac-toe, and then move up in complexity to more complex projects.