What is machine learning? - Data Points

Every useful machine – from advanced AI through to the humble toaster – has to possess'knowledge' about the world in which it operates. For example, within the design of a household toaster, much knowledge about the world must have already been implemented. The toaster'knows' what electrical voltage is available through the design of its electric components. Through its physical dimensions it knows the size of a slice of bread (with some allowance for variation). Within the toaster's regulation mechanisms lies knowledge on the duration of toasting typically needed, and in its switch and knob design it even knows the typical size of people's fingers with which these buttons are being pushed and turned.