Table of contents
Introduction
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a vast field with various capabilities and functionalities. In an attempt to classify AI, we can break it down into seven types based on two overarching categories: AI capabilities and AI functionalities. This blog will delve into these seven types, shedding light on the existing AI landscape and the theoretical concepts that might shape the future.
Artificial Narrow AI (Weak AI):
Narrow AI is the only type of AI that currently exists. It excels at performing specific tasks but operates within defined parameters.
It represents the realized AI we have today, contrasting with theoretical AI that we may have in the future.
Examples include AI systems trained for specific functions that humans might not perform as efficiently.
Artificial General Intelligence (AGI or Strong AI):
AGI is a theoretical concept that goes beyond narrow AI. It has the ability to use previous learnings to accomplish new tasks in different contexts.
Unlike narrow AI, AGI can learn without human intervention, potentially leading to a more autonomous and adaptable form of intelligence.
As of now, AGI remains a concept, sparking discussions in science fiction and speculative scenarios.
Artificial Super AI:
Super AI, if ever realized, would surpass human cognitive abilities. It would possess emotions, make judgments, and have beliefs and desires of its own.
This advanced form of AI would operate beyond catering to human sentiments and experiences, potentially leading to a new era of intelligence.
Reactive Machine AI:
Under narrow AI functionalities, reactive machine AI performs specific, specialized tasks. It analyzes vast amounts of data to produce intelligent outputs.
Examples include systems like IBM's Deep Blue, which defeated chess grandmaster Garry Kasparov in the late 1990s.
Limited Memory AI:
Another category of narrow AI functionalities is limited memory AI. It recalls past events and outcomes, using data to decide on a course of action likely to achieve a desired outcome.
This type of AI improves with time as it's trained on more data, making it more proficient in decision-making.
Theory of Mind AI:
Moving into theoretical AI capabilities, we encounter AGI's concept of theory of mind AI. This type would understand the thoughts and emotions of other entities, particularly humans.
Emotion AI, currently in development, aims to analyze voices, images, and other data to understand and respond to human feelings.
Self-Aware AI:
Under the theoretical concept of super AI, self-aware AI would have the ability to understand its own internal conditions and traits, leading to its own set of emotions, needs, and beliefs.
This type of AI raises intriguing and potentially unsettling questions about the nature of artificial intelligence.
Conclusion
The world of artificial intelligence is rapidly evolving, with new breakthroughs and challenges emerging regularly. Understanding the different types of AI is crucial for both professionals in the field and the general public. As we continue to explore the capabilities and functionalities of AI, it's essential to remain mindful of the ethical implications and societal impacts that these advancements may bring. The journey towards a future where AGI and super AI exist is filled with uncertainties, but it's a journey that humanity is actively shaping.