Technology and the Future of Cognitive Computing »

Recently popularized by IBM's highly intelligent Watson supercomputer, which competed on the hit game show Jeopardy, cognitive computing refers to machines that are capable of learning concepts and patterns through advanced language processing algorithms. A system that involves incredibly advanced artificial intelligence, cognitive computing is one facet of computer science that isn't for the faint of heart. Although much of the hype is centered on big business and big data processing, there are a number of consumer applications. Whereas business leaders might use the technology to increase their bottom line, streamline daily operations and achieve greater profitability, consumers can take advantage of computing to ease some of the burdens of everyday life. In fact, many consumers are using some form of it without realizing it.