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What Is Artificial Intelligence?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a machine based system that can make predictions, recommendations, or decisions to achieve human defined objectives. AI systems perceive their environment, process that information into models, and use those models to inform actions.

Two Fundamental Approaches

Most modern systems combine both approaches.

Deterministic AI

  • • Predictable and repeatable outputs
  • • Same input → same result
Examples:
Rule-Based Systems
Fraud Detection

Probabilistic AI

  • • Outputs vary based on probability
  • • Same input may produce different results
  • • Human verification is required due to risk of errors or hallucinations
Examples:
Generative AI
Image & Code Generation
Chatbots

Common AI Categories

AI capabilities are often described by function. These categories are not mutually exclusive:

  • Generative AI: Creates new text, images, audio, video, and code from prompts
  • Predictive AI: Analyzes data to forecast outcomes and identify patterns
  • Computer Vision: Processes multiple data types (text, images, audio, video) simultaneously
  • Multimodal AI: Processes multiple data types (text, images, audio, video) simultaneously
  • Agentic AI: Performs autonomous multi-step tasks with minimal human intervention
  • Embedded AI: AI features integrated into existing software platforms