Blog 8: AI ML and Convergence

Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) will be disrupting society and business even more than the World Wide Web (WWW). Just like WWW led to the disintermediation of several industries like travel and programming. 


For example, an industry that could severely shrink or even disappear is customer service. Due to the rise of AI-driven chatbots and virtual assistants (SIRI and Alexa) who provide 24/7 support and are more than likely more cost effective. They have already taken over entry level customer service jobs. In general, industries that rely on repetitive tasks or clear-cut rules. Jobs like data entry, basic accounting, and research might disappear as well. As AI and ML  become more sophisticated, they could also start taking over jobs in the creative industries (such as graphic design).


While the rise of AI and ML has led to severe job loss in several industries, the convergence of AI with other technologies can open new opportunities in those industries. For example, in the creative industries, AI and virtual reality(VR) could come up with interesting applications and immersive experiences. Education will also see a lot of changes. I am not sure whether it would be positive or negative. Students tend to rely on AI for homework assistance, however there are several AI-based softwares that help students understand materials better. 


So, the future of AI and ML can go both extremely positive or negative. We have already seen the negative effects of what it is doing to the job market. But we are also seeing the new industries form and how the disintermediation is fostering innovation.


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