To be honest, there isn’t a straightforward answer. Even experts can’t seem to agree on it. Some say it’s a term from way back in 1954 that doesn’t fit today, while others define it as machines that can learn, reason, and act on their own.
The real trouble lies in the word “intelligence.” While we all understand “artificial,” psychologists still can’t decide what “intelligence” means in humans, let alone in computers.
Adding to the confusion is that what qualifies as AI keeps changing. There’s something called the AI effect, which means that as soon as we figure out how to do something with computers, we stop calling it AI. For example, years ago, people thought a computer needed some kind of artificial intelligence to read text, but now that’s just a regular feature on your phone’s camera app. Even chatbots that talk to you are starting to seem less special as we learn more about them.
Categories of ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
So instead of using a confusing definition of AI, let’s focus on three clearer ones:
Artificial Narrow Intelligence (ANI)
Artificial Narrow Intelligence (ANI) is like a computer that’s really good at one specific thing. Some examples include chatbots like ChatGPT, language models like GPT-4, image generators like DALL-E 2, self-driving cars, voice assistants like Alexa and Siri, and complex algorithms used in various fields like recommendation algorithms for Netflix.
ANI is the most prevalent form of AI currently in use. It’s designed to perform a specific task, such as:
- Image recognition
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Natural language processing
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Chess playing
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Expert systems
ANI is narrow in scope and operates within a predetermined set of parameters. It’s created using machine learning algorithms, which enable it to learn from data and improve its performance over time. However, ANI lacks the ability to generalize across multiple domains or understand the context behind its tasks.
Artificial General Intelligence (AGI)
Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), also known as strong AI, is an AI that’s as smart as or even smarter than humans. It’s not limited to specific tasks like ANI. While some argue that models like ChatGPT show signs of AGI, most researchers don’t agree. AGI would be able to understand and do almost anything a human can, like making coffee or attending university.
AGI, also known as Strong AI, is the holy grail of AI research. It’s designed to possess the ability to:
- Reason and problem-solve like humans
- Understand the context and nuances of tasks
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Learn and adapt across multiple domains
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Improve its own performance through self-modification
AGI would be equivalent to human intelligence, capable of performing any intellectual task that humans can. However, the development of AGI is still in its infancy, and it’s a subject of ongoing debate among experts.
Artificial Super Intelligence (ASI)
Artificial Super Intelligence (ASI) is the most advanced form of AI, surpassing human intelligence by far. Think of it as the supercomputers you see in sci-fi movies. We’re nowhere near developing one yet, but it’s a topic of debate among experts.
ASI is a hypothetical AI system that surpasses human intelligence by a significant margin. It would possess an intellect far beyond human capabilities, allowing it to:
- Solve complex problems that are currently unsolvable by humans
- Create new technologies and innovations at an unprecedented rate
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Potentially pose an existential risk to humanity due to its immense power
ASI is still purely theoretical and is considered a potential future development. The concept of ASI raises important questions about the ethics and safety of creating such a powerful AI system.
Key differences between ASI, ANI, and AGI
The Future of AGI: Uncertain Timelines and Changing Definitions
When might we see AGI? Opinions vary widely. Some argue we already have it, others claim it’s unattainable, and still, others predict it’s just around the corner. The term AGI is gaining traction because tools like ChatGPT are challenging us to reassess what we mean by AI. While these tools are remarkable, they’re nowhere near the sci-fi AI depicted in movies like Star Trek.
In essence, AGI is an AI that could easily fit into the cast of a space opera.
"Defining AI: why it's so tricky. Experts can't agree, and the term 'intelligence' remains a mystery even in humans. The AI effect: as tech advances, what was once considered AI becomes the norm. What do you think AI means? #AI #ArtificialIntelligence"
