AI is becoming a hot topic in the world of tech. During the launch of the Apple iPhone 8 and X, an emphasis was placed on a new “neural engine” present within iOS. This advanced Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) processor promises to help the iPhone become even more intelligent.
Google has followed suit. During the launch of the new Pixel 2 smartphone, Google emphasized the benefits of AI technology throughout their entire presentation. According to Google, they no longer even see AI as a platform-specific technology – and they think that AI technology could eventually supersede smartphones entirely.
So what does this mean for you? This increased emphasis on AI is interesting – but is it really going to make a difference in the future? Here are the takeaways we’ve gathered from the recent launch of these AI platforms.
Related: 7 Emerging Trends in Web Design & Development
AI Is More Useful Than Ever
Siri was one of the first AI systems released on smartphones, way back in 2010. And when it was first released, Siri was underwhelming. The AI had difficulty interpreting natural language voice commands properly, and it was usually faster to simply enter queries on your own. This made many people question whether or not AI was actually useful – or just a novelty.
At the Google Pixel 2 launch, however, one thing has become clear – today’s AI platforms are actually useful for everyday people. Natural language recognition from Google has been improved dramatically, allowing for easier interpretation of complex commands.
In addition, Google’s AI platform is now built directly into its phones and devices – instead of relying on cloud-based services to process queries, Google users can make use of advanced AI capabilities without even using an internet connection.
Google’s AI technology is no longer just reliant on smartphones, either. Google also announced the launch of two new Google Home devices – the Max and the Mini.
These devices use the same advanced Google Voice Assistant as the Pixel 2, and are designed to compete specifically with the likes of Amazon’s Alexa voice assistant program.
AI Is Likely To Be The Future Of Device Interaction
Google certainly thinks that the future of smartphones will be built on software – not hardware. They’ve emphasized that they’re not focused on any particular hardware platform for their AI programs.
This is a dramatic shift – but it could be a promising one. Natural language voice interaction with AI platforms is a very easy way to communicate.
For example, it’s much easier to just say, “Find cheap flights to Phoenix!” to an AI assistant which can provide you with relevant results – performing the search on your own would take much longer, and may not even get you the appropriate results.
Smartphone technology, while improving, has certainly slowed in recent years, and many phones are now very similar in terms of features, capabilities, and hardware.
By focusing on AI and Machine Learning technology, Google has made it clear that they intend to transcend the limitation of current hardware paradigms and emphasize an AI-focused future.
And while some remain skeptical, AI technology is constantly improving – and if major companies like Google and Apple continue to emphasize AI technology, it’s likely that AI will be the future of device interaction – not just on smartphones, but throughout our entire lives.
So what does this mean for marketers? Keep your eye out for AI! It will be a huge influence on consumer behavior well beyond the holiday season this year.
Just look at GrowthBot as one example of how AI is paving the way for how everyday people interact with companies online. Watch this space for more updates – we’ll keep you in the know. Or contact us here at Ironmark directly for more insights into how we can help you achieve your AI goals.
