Artificial intelligence is becoming more ubiquitous, but most of us don’t see it in action as it’s very much behind the scenes. However, its presence is increasing to the point where we’re slowly but surely seeing its impact. Consider this: Just as people years ago didn’t know what to make of personal computers, cell phones and smartphones, they are now absolutely necessary components of our existence. AI will become just as necessary — and sooner rather than later, maybe even now. Here are some unexpected ways AI is revolutionizing connected living.
1. AI-powered devices will soon know what you’re thinking
Today’s connected living technologies allow users to remotely manage homes and automate various functions within the home. We call these systems and devices “smart.” They may indeed be smart, but since they require user intervention, it would be hard to say they have “intelligence.”
Taking that one step further, AI can pool consumer data from multiple devices, learning from previous experiences, adjusting it to suit customer preferences over time and then make its own decisions.
Picture this future: Smart devices are benefiting from advances in machine learning, behavioral analytics and other types of artificial learning. Soon your smart home systems will soon be able to recognize you, play your favorite music, turn on the lights to your desired brightness and adjust the temperature to your preferred setting — all without you having to lift a finger.
2. The AI-IoT powerhouse combination saves energy
Combine AI with IoT and AI’s potential is limitless. For example, integrating AI and IoT with big data and the cloud enables technology providers to minimize customers’ energy expenses. Smart home devices can combine movement tracking-and-recording sensors with programming that adapts to the homeowners’ habits and adjust lights, heating, ventilation and air conditioning usage accordingly.
This energy-saving benefit is especially relevant to the European market. While smart home adoption is still in its infancy in Europe, its consumers’ strong environmental principles plus high energy costs make energy saving a strong driver for mass adoption of, and investment in, connected systems
3. AI and IoT merging opens new markets
Merging IoT’s ability to exchange information among devices and AI’s abilities to learn and solve problems results in high potential benefits and new business opportunities. Helping seniors maintain their independence with aging-in-place tech is just one of many new industries that have been birthed by this technological revolution.
Insurance companies are the new players in the smart home market, as they recognize the importance of fitting their customers’ homes with connected devices to accelerate response time in the event of an accident, reduce claims and enhance brand image and loyalty. Other business areas that could flourish with AI and IoT advances include airlines, industry and manufacturing, and tele-assistance for seniors.
Although you may not see it, artificial intelligence will be just as ubiquitous as your smartphone — and for many good reasons.
This article has been written by Ohad Amir, Essence CTO, and published in IoT Agenda.
