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Bridget Chipungu-Chimbga
RECENTLY, a fascinating development unfolded in the world of technology.
Meta, the company behind Facebook and WhatsApp, introduced its artificial intelligence (AI)-powered chatbot, Meta AI, to a select group of users in Africa on both WhatsApp and Instagram.
This seemingly small step marks a significant milestone, particularly for regions where WhatsApp has become the primary gateway to the internet.
The integration of Meta AI with WhatsApp has the potential to further expand the reach and impact of AI technology in these regions.
AI has become an invisible architect, subtly influencing our daily routines in ways we often overlook.
From the devices we use to the platforms we engage with; AI technologies are woven into the fabric of our daily experiences.
For instance, have you ever wondered why your social media feeds seem like a personalised news channel, filled with content eerily similar to your past likes and shares?
The answer lies in the invisible hand of AI algorithms.
These sophisticated programmes meticulously analyse your online behaviour, every like, comment and share, to curate a personalised feed just for you.
This approach, while offering a seemingly convenient “pick-me-up” experience, presents a double-edged sword. On one hand, AI tailors content to your interests, ensuring a steady stream of posts you are likely to enjoy.
But on the other hand, this targeted approach can create “filter bubbles’’, where you are only exposed to perspectives that reinforce your existing beliefs.Beyond the curated feed, AI’s influence extends to the very way we interact with our smartphones.
Take for instance the convenience of unlocking your phone using Face ID. AI is diligently comparing your live image with stored data in the background, making facial recognition technology a reality.
This technology utilises machine learning algorithms, the brains behind AI, to analyse your unique facial features and create a personal biometric signature.
Google and other search engines have been employing AI for years to refine search results and present relevant information.
Now, AI-generated responses can appear directly at the top of search queries, potentially changing how we consume information.
Another example is the Google Recorder app that employs AI-driven speech recognition to transcribe spoken words into text.
This functionality is not only handy for note taking but also improves accessibility for those who may find typing challenging.
Ever marvel at how e-hailing apps like Uber can connect you with a driver in a few minutes. AI analyses historical data on user demand and driver availability. This ensures the most efficient allocation of drivers for a quick response.
But AI does not stop there.
It acts as your virtual co-pilot, analysing real-time traffic data and road closures to find the fastest route.
The result? A time-saving and stress-free ride, orchestrated by the invisible hand of AI.The financial industry heavily relies on AI, particularly for fraud detection and risk assessment. Banks use machine learning algorithms to analyse customers’ spending patterns and identify anomalies.
If a transaction deviates significantly from your usual behaviour, AI can flag it for further investigation, helping prevent fraudulent activity and safeguarding your assets.
Additionally, AI assists in credit scoring and loan approvals by evaluating data and predicting risk levels.
Streaming services like Netflix and Showmax leverage on the power of AI to analyse your viewing history and preferences, with the AI algorithms acting as a personal curator that recommends content you are likely to enjoy.
This personalised approach eliminates time-consuming scrolling and guesswork, allowing you to dive straight into content that aligns with your tastes.
However, while being served recommendations you are likely to enjoy is undeniably satisfying, it is important to be mindful that AI may inadvertently limit your exposure to a broader range of genres and styles.
The ubiquitous presence of AI in our lives can, therefore, be both beneficial and concerning.
As AI becomes more ingrained in our daily routines, users should stay informed about how their data is being used and how AI influences their online and offline experiences. By fostering open discussions, advocating responsible development and remaining critically engaged, we can ensure that AI serves as a tool for progress and positive change, shaping a future that benefits all.
Bridget Chipungu-Chimbga is a PhD candidate in AI & IoT, University of Pretoria. She is an AI lead researcher at AI-RISE and a telecom engineer, passionate about the intersection of technology and society. Feel free to connect with her on LinkedIn @BridgetChimbga
Online Reporter