From self-driving cars to virtual assistants, AI has become a ubiquitous part of our lives. But the rapid growth of AI isn’t due to a sudden surge in popularity — it’s the result of years of technological, scientific and philosophical breakthroughs. From generating images to diagnosing brain health, these 10 AI breakthroughs illustrate the ways that we’re increasingly using, relying on and experiencing the benefits of this transformational technology.
1. Artificial Intelligence Helps Boost Sustainability
AI is already making an impact on sustainable business practices, from helping summarize texts and write emails to eliminating bugs in code. But AI can do even more to reduce a company’s environmental footprint. For example, an AI-powered paint formula keeps buildings significantly cooler by reflecting solar radiation. This innovation could reduce energy consumption in hot climates by up to 30%.
2. A Key Step Toward Safer Online Parenting
A new app uses facial recognition and text analysis to scan children’s digital activities for signs of distress, bullying or anxiety and then alerts parents in real time. The developers say it’s a vital step toward safer digital parenting, but privacy advocates warn it could normalize surveillance of minors.