Introduction
Artificial Intelligence is intelligence demonstrated by machines. AI powered machines mimic humans and exhibit cognition and logical reasoning. This concept was abstracted as early as 1950, but rapidly caught momentum once significant work gained ground. The intention behind developing AI is to engineer machines that can solve problems and achieve goals. They are designed to assist humans.
In the course of time since its inception, AI has transformed many industries such as finance, healthcare, education, transportation. However, it is so believed that only a fraction of AI’s potential has been met so far. The technology shows strong prospects for further growth. It will most likely permeate every sector and create a soaring demand for AI professionals.
Come to think of it, AI has invisibly become an important part of our lives. This project has led me to explore the field and gain an understanding of AI beyond smart phones, smart cars, and smart homes.
Database and research
During my research I came across an infographic that maps the timeline of AI.
I studied every milestone on the timeline in depth and adopted more or less all of them in my Timeline, with the addition of AI Winter. It was a critical period in the history of AI.
Alan Turing’s commendable foresight marked the first step in the direction of AI, despite the fact that he never saw his notion be realised. The Father of AI, John McCarthy’s contribution to the field defined the founding and propelled the development of AI.
AI made possible the invention of machines that have the ability to manipulate and move objects, to plan and solve problems, and to reason. Over time AI introduced machines that can learn, recognise speech, and interact with humans. It showed us breakthroughs in technology which a few decades ago were unfathomable. AI revolutionised not only the field of technology, but every other that it touched.
Reflection and future directions
Although the field of artificial intelligence particularly presents a promising future, there have been some speculations which challenge AI. The threat to cyber security being one of the primary concerns.
Starting recently, efforts have been directed towards regulating a previously unrestricted sector of AI. This shall unveil serious implications that will dictate the development of AI in future. So forth, my direction would be to explore the speculated timeline of AI’s future.
Softwares
To prepare the timeline an open-source tool Timeline JS was used. This greatly convenient browser-based software enables anyone to build visually rich, interactive timelines, with nothing more than Google spreadsheets.