Applications (and implications) of artificial intelligence

Advances in artificial intelligence are having a growing impact on sectors as diverse as retail, healthcare and manufacturing. Among the many emerging trends in the technology sector, the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) is likely to be one of the most significant over the coming years. AI refers to the ability of machines to perform tasks that would typically be associated with human cognition such as responding to questions, recognizing faces, playing video games or describing objects. Over recent years, AI capability has improved to such an extent that a range of commercial applications are now possible in areas like consumer electronics, industrial automation and online retail. Technology companies of all sizes and in locations all around the world are developing AI-driven products aimed at reducing operating costs, improving decision-making and enhancing consumer services across a range of client industries.