Artificial intelligence (AI) is fast being integrated into our society, spurred on by recent developments which have made it possible for both individuals and businesses alike to leverage the power of this innovative technology. With the ability to supercharge human efforts, enhance efficiency, boost accuracy and reduce overheads in ways that were previously unattainable, it’s clear why the world is quickly adopting AI – but whether it’s for better or worse is yet to be determined.
Here, we take a look at five major ways in which AI is being used in society, and what it means for you.
Healthcare
AI is being used increasingly within the healthcare industry to help save doctors and nurses valuable time, and provide them with a much needed reduction in their workloads. AI algorithms can analyse medical images and be used to help detect diseases, whilst robots can assist with complicated surgeries. AI can also use genetic profiles and medical histories to create personalised treatment plans for patients, helping to reduce waiting list times and optimise the efficiency of their care. Using predictive analytics, AI algorithms can also forecast patient outcomes, helping to drive preventative care and resource allocation – which in turn further increases the productivity of a hospital or healthcare setting in general.
Finance
Many banks use AI-powered systems that monitor digital transactions in real-time, to identify patterns that could signify fraudulent activity. This can help to protect our finances by acting quickly – notifying you of any activity outside of your usual habits. It can even automatically freeze your account until you can verify any suspicious activity or behaviour on your accounts. AI chatbots and customer assistants also provide 24/7 support and guidance with online banking, so you never need to stress about the safety of your money.
Retail
When it comes to our shopping patterns, AI is already a huge driving force for personalised advertisements and social media campaigns. By learning our habits, preferences and past behaviours online, retailers can leverage AI to encourage us to spend more on their products which appear to have been made just for us. From an operational perspective, AI can assist retailers with stock management, project management, and customer service via the use of chatbots.
Businesses of all sizes can benefit from AI. With access to high-powered data analytics and AI-driven insights, brands and organisations can leverage this technology to make nuanced decisions at every level of their operations.
Entertainment
The entertainment industry has certainly been significantly impacted by the rise of generative AI, and it has caused debate and controversy amidst many creative professionals. AI is capable of generating music, art, video and writing – something that many artists and creators are hesitant to adopt.
However, when it comes to a more personalised entertainment experience, AI is appeasing thousands of consumers by suggesting books, films and music based on their own unique preferences and tastes. Additionally, in the gaming industry, AI has enhanced gameplay and design, leading the way to a more realistic and challenging virtual reality – though opinions are split on its value.
Education
AI tailors educational content to the individual needs of each student, enhancing learning outcomes and improving their overall learning experience. Teachers and educators can also rely on this technology to lessen the time they spend grading and marking papers and assignments, as AI can provide almost instantaneous feedback to students. Plus, with all of the administrative tools available to other sectors, educators can benefit from streamlined workflows and automated lesson planning.
With AI being utilised across every aspect of our modern lives, it’s clear that the benefits and impacts are still being explored and uncovered. But as it looks like AI is here to stay, learning about the technology can help reduce fears over its use and dispel any common myths around how AI is being used in society.
