Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
Narrow AI
Definition
Narrow AI, also known as Weak AI, is a type of artificial intelligence that is focused on performing a single, specific task. It operates within a pre-defined range and cannot perform tasks beyond its designated field.
Why It Matters
All the AI we use today, from virtual assistants to self-driving cars, is Narrow AI. These systems can be incredibly powerful and perform at superhuman levels on their specific task, but they lack general intelligence.
Contextual Example
An AI that is an expert at playing chess is a Narrow AI. It can beat any human player, but it cannot play checkers, write a poem, or even understand what a chessboard is in the real world.
Common Misunderstandings
- Narrow AI is contrasted with Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), which is a hypothetical AI with human-like general cognitive abilities.
- The vast majority of AI research and commercial applications are focused on Narrow AI.