Artificial intelligence is truly a revolutionary feat of computer science, set to become a core component of all modern software over the coming years and decades. It is the simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, especially computer systems. A wide-ranging branch of computer science is concerned with building smart machines capable of performing tasks that typically require human intelligence. Examples include excelling at strategic games such as chess, being able to understand speech, translating texts from one human language to another, formulating medical diagnoses, and drafting legal documents.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept or a niche technology. It is a reality that affects almost every aspect of our daily lives, starting from commuting to shopping to browsing the web. Whether teaching new languages in a personalized way or translating speech and text in real-time, AI-powered language tools from Duolingo to Skype are bridging social and cultural divides in our workplaces, classrooms, and everyday lives. This technology drives much of what we do, from information-seeking to planning, and decision-making. In today’s world, AI has started controlling human lives in all possible ways.

AI is used in many practical applications, such as Siri or Alexa and it can put the problem-solving capabilities of robust technology in everyone's pocket. AI is a set of algorithms and technologies that are already gearing up many tasks in everyday life, such as Google Photos' facial recognition, Netflix's movie recommendations, and Uber's ride-sharing service.

AI is not only about convenience and entertainment. It also can potentially transform many domains and industries, such as education, health care, agriculture, and energy. AI can help us discover new drugs, diagnose diseases, optimize crop yields, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. AI can also enhance our creativity, communication, and collaboration by providing us with new tools and insights.

Every coin has two sides, as, AI also poses many challenges and risks for society. AI can have unintended consequences, such as displacing workers, invading privacy, amplifying biases, and creating ethical dilemmas. It can also be misused or abused by malicious actors, such as hackers, terrorists, or authoritarian regimes. AI can also be unpredictable or unreliable, especially when it operates in complex or uncertain environments.

Therefore, we need to be aware of the benefits and drawbacks of AI and how it impacts our lives in positive and negative ways. We need to be informed and engaged in the development and governance of AI and ensure that it aligns with our values and goals. We need to be responsible and accountable for the use and misuse of AI and ensure that it respects our rights and dignity. We need to be proactive and adaptive in learning and working with AI and ensure that it enhances our capabilities and opportunities.

AI is ruling our lives in many ways but it doesn’t make us not passive or powerless in this process. We can shape AI as much as it shapes us. We can use AI as a tool for betterment and not for destruction. We can harness AI as a force for innovation, not stagnation. We can leverage AI as a partner for humanity but not as a threat to mankind.

~ MICROSOFT INNOVATIONS CLUB, VIT CHENNAI