Artificial intelligence (AI) seems to be everywhere. Generative AI in particular (tools like Midjourney, ChatGPT, and Gemini (formerly Bard)) is currently at the height of its hype.
But AI as an academic field has been around much longer than the last few years. When it comes to real-world applications, many are hidden or relatively unknown. These AI tools are much less lustrous than fantasy image generators, but they are still ubiquitous.
As various AI technologies continue to advance, the use of AI will continue to advance in various industries. This includes not only healthcare and consumer technology, but also more concerning applications such as warfare. Here we summarize some of the broad range of AI applications that you may be less familiar with.
Read more: 2023 was the year of generative AI. What can we expect in 2024?
AI in healthcare
Various AI systems are already being used in the medical field to improve patient outcomes and advance health research.
One of the strengths of computer programs powered by artificial intelligence is that they can sift through and analyze truly huge data sets in a fraction of the time it would take a human (or a team of humans) to do so.
For example, AI can help researchers sift through vast libraries of genetic data. By analyzing large data sets, geneticists can identify genes that may be responsible for various diseases, which can help develop new diagnostic tests.
AI is also helping to speed up the search for treatments. Selecting and testing treatments for specific diseases can be time-consuming, so leveraging AI's ability to sift through data can help here as well.
For example, the U.S.-based nonprofit Every Cure uses AI algorithms to search medical databases and match existing drugs with diseases they might be effective against. This approach can be expected to save significant time and resources.
Read more: Artificial intelligence is already in our hospitals.5 questions you want answered
hidden AI
Beyond medical research, other fields not directly related to computer science are also benefiting from AI.
At CERN, home of the Large Hadron Collider, recently developed advanced AI algorithms are helping physicists tackle the most difficult aspects of analyzing particle data generated by experiments.
Last year, astronomers used an AI algorithm for the first time to identify “potentially dangerous” asteroids – space rocks that could someday hit Earth. This algorithm will be central to the operation of the Vera C. Rubin Observatory, currently under construction in Chile.
Read more: Why detecting dangerous asteroids heading towards Earth is so difficult
One of the main areas where “hidden” AI is used in our lives is transportation. Millions of flights and rail trips around the world are being coordinated by AI. These AI systems aim to optimize schedules to reduce costs and maximize efficiency.
Artificial intelligence can also manage real-time road traffic by analyzing traffic patterns, traffic volume, and other factors and adjusting traffic lights and signals accordingly. Navigation apps like Google Maps also use AI optimization algorithms to find the best route for your navigation system.
AI also exists in various things around us. The robot vacuum uses AI software to process all sensor inputs and expertly navigate your home.
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The most advanced cars use AI in their suspension systems, so passengers can enjoy a smooth ride.
Of course, there is no shortage of more exotic AI applications. A few years ago, UK-based brewery startup IntelligentX used AI to create custom beers for its customers. Other breweries are also using AI to optimize beer production.
and Meet the Ganimals, a “collaborative social experiment” from the MIT Media Lab that uses generative AI technology to invent new species that have never existed before.
Read more: Snapchat's 'creepy' AI failure is a reminder that chatbots aren't humans.But as the lines blur, the risks increase.
AI can also be weaponized
On a less casual note, AI also has many uses in defense. Some of these uses can be horrible if done poorly.
For example, some experts have warned that AI could help create biological weapons. This can happen through genetic sequencing, making it easier for non-experts to generate dangerous pathogens such as new viruses.
When there is an active war going on, military powers can use AI to design war scenarios and plans. If a major power were to use such tools or deploy autonomous AI-powered weapons without applying ethical considerations, the consequences could be catastrophic.
Read more: What killer robots mean for the future of warfare
AI is being used in missile guidance systems to maximize the efficiency of military operations. It can also be used to detect submarines operating in secret.
Furthermore, AI can also be used to predict and identify the activities and movements of terrorist groups. In this way, intelligence agencies can take preventive measures. These types of AI systems are complex and require high processing power to provide real-time insights.
Much has also been said about how generative AI is enhancing people's ability to generate fake news and disinformation. This could affect the democratic process and influence election outcomes.
AI is present in our lives in so many ways that it is nearly impossible to track. Its myriad applications affect us all.
This makes the ethical and responsible use of AI and well-designed regulations more important than ever. This way, you can reap the many benefits of AI while ensuring you stay ahead of the risks.
Read more: Australia plans to regulate 'high-risk' AI.Here's how to do it successfully
