Google’s search engine uses previous searches to provide topic that are catered to your interests.  (unsplash.com)

Amid the commotion over cutting-edge phones, refined software, and augmented reality’s promise, the evolution of artificial intelligence has been outshined by more convenient technologies.

Without people noticing, artificial intelligence has managed to permeate itself into most everyone’s daily tasks. Our school iPads are equipped with Apple’s voice recognition program, “Siri,” which builds a “record” of our previous requests to generate a response that is pioneered towards our own preferences. “Google Assistant” carries out the same task in a more widespread fashion, as multiple devices can be linked together to share this information.

Through a subset of artificial intelligence, called reinforcement learning, a subsidiary of Alphabet called DeepMind created a computer known as AlphaGo that can beat one of the foremost players of Go in the world and master the 2,500 year-old board game. 

While AlphaGo seems as a somewhat pointless extension of artificial intelligence, many applications might be more compelling to the typical person. For example, facial recognition, which will make an appearance on the iPhone X, is now secure enough with the addition of deep learning, another branch of artificial intelligence, that can be used to authorize financial transactions. Driving cars, which are presently either too risky or too tentative with their movements, need reinforcement learning to dictate when and where to contest for position.

Concern is certainly rampant, however, as many people are troubled about the effect on worldwide economics as robots assume tasks that humans once performed. As artificial intelligence continues to advance, the decimation of jobs will become more inevitable.

Artificial intelligence should be harnessed, rather than feared, as it already runs through the veins of our society. Instead of zeroing in on the minuscule setbacks, we should be focusing on the myriad of possibilities that stem from continued development in this field. Improved digital security, automobile safety, and agricultural efficiency are all within our reach, so why not take the extra step? By embracing artificial intelligence and setting our fears aside, the world we live in can only become more convenient for us.