Narrow AI, also known as weak AI or artificial narrow intelligence (ANI), is a type of artificial intelligence that is designed to perform a single or limited task. It does not mimic complex thought processes or apply knowledge to other tasks like general AI. It uses algorithms and natural language processing (NLP) to simulate human behavior in machines.Examples of Narrow AI include spam email filtering, music recommendation services, and even autonomous vehicles. However, there are some concerns about the widespread use of Narrow AI in important infrastructure functions. Some argue that characteristics of Narrow AI make it brittle, and in cases in which a neural network may be used to control important systems (e.g. power grid, financial trading) alternatives may be more risk averse.
It’s important to note that Narrow AI largely relies on humans to
put to task. Hence, it is prone to human failings, such as people
setting overly ambitious business targets or prioritizing tasks
incorrectly. Despite these challenges, Narrow AI has been
successfully integrated into various applications, including virtual
assistants like Siri and Google Assistant.
The opposite of Narrow AI is Strong AI or Artificial General
Intelligence (AGI). Unlike Narrow AI, which is designed to perform
a single or limited task, Strong AI or AGI is capable of handling a
wide range of tasks. It can think, comprehend, learn, and apply its
intelligence to solve complex problems, much like humans.
However, it’s important to note that as of now, AGI is still a
theoretical concept.
Definition – Narrow AI (Weak AI)
