Rapid advances in technology have given us smart devices that have changed the way we work and play, but have given birth to many misconceptions about the artificial intelligence (AI) behind our computers, smartphones, and tablets. There are fictitious stories and movies that depict a future where people lose their jobs to machine learning and automation, which only reinforce misconceptions about AI.
The recent forecasts, studies, and surveys about the progress of AI showed that people are divided over its pros and cons while not completely sure what it is all about. Some people think AI is all about self-driving cars and robots, precisely because they tend to get their information about AI from movies, social media, or TV.
And despite the fact that AI has proven to have a positive impact on our lives, mainstream media continue to warn us about its possible dangers. Here are some of the myths they peddle.
Artificial intelligence can think like a human
Even if AI was designed to efficiently complete tasks and process loads of complicated information, it still does not have cognitive thought, and is in fact forced to follow the datasets and logic that the programmers have built for it. We have yet to crack the code on how artificial intelligence can emulate the human ability to process human emotions and thought processes like joy, sadness, or sarcasm, as well as adapt to its environment. The fact is that AI has gone a long way since its development in the 1950s, but it’s still reliant on developers to create its framework and to function.
Artificial intelligence is designed to replace all jobs
It is true that AI and automation has changed how healthcare, real estate, retail, and manufacturing businesses use technology. But the fear of machines taking over all jobs from humans is mostly an exaggeration that has been blown out of proportion.
During the industrial revolution in the 18th century (when most businesses shifted from agriculture to factory work), people were afraid of losing their jobs to robots. But employers actually had no intention of replacing their employees with machines; rather, they wanted to help their employees improve their efficiency through the use of machines. The same situation applies to people in the 21st century and their fears of AI.
Think of it this way. Artificial intelligence can take care of boring and repetitive tasks for you while you focus on creative or challenging tasks or learn new skills. Another way to look at it is that as AI takes over manual tasks, the demand for jobs that require imagination and creativity will increase. AI will take over some work-related roles in the future, this will only create demand for unique kinds of jobs based on new capacities and needs.
Artificial intelligence will only benefit major corporations
The number of businesses using AI is growing every year, although only a few of them are fully taking advantage of what it can offer. Companies like Apple and Google offer innovative AI-powered solutions that can substantially improve work processes, enhance business communications, or boost profits. And that’s something any business can benefit from.
In fact, more small- to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are using AI in their customer service processes. The trend began with interactive voice response systems and chatbots, and now they are implementing AI to other areas of their operations. AI-powered communication tools also enable marketing departments to simplify workflows and provide data-driven product suggestions to customers. Natural language processing is giving rise to more perceptive social listening across different platforms.
With all the benefits that artificial intelligence can offer, any company would be missing out if they choose not to invest in this evolving technology.
The experts at Cyber Shift Technologies help enterprises solve IT issues or implement custom-built solutions. Contact us today, and give your IT a much-needed boost.
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