Should we fear the rise of Artificial Intelligence?

Aren’t humans the smartest creatures on earth, or are we getting replaced by AI-powered machines? The trepidation of artificial intelligence taking over the world is worrying many people, and some numbers from a recent survey are adding fuel to the fire. AI will outperform humans in just 45 years, that’s the core finding of a recent survey that I read today. 352 machine learning experts were asked to predict the future of AI, and here is what they had to say:

According to the survey, conducted by University of Oxford and Yale University, most of the current jobs are expected to get automated in the next 100 years. From transportation to science, heath, and finance, every aspect of our life will get significantly transformed and reshaped by AI. But when it comes to chances of AI performing all human tasks better than us, the possibility is 50 percent. Will AI create catastrophic outcomes that lead to human extinction? Will humans succumb to machines? There is a miniscule 5% chance, says the survey.

As per the report, AI will outperform humans in many tasks like driving trucks (by 2027), translating languages (by 2024), and writing high school essays (by 2026, and carrying out surgeries (2053). Can robots be trained to drive or perform surgeries? Perhaps yes, but how can they think and write like humans and publish books by 2049 as they survey says? I doubt. That said, artificial intelligence tools can enhance proofreading, but writing from scratch and writing in an interesting and effective manner is something only humans can do.

Everywhere you go; people are talking about automation replacing humans. Admittedly, it is frightening, especially if you have any technique based jobs that AI robots and tools can easily handle.

In short, AI will benefit us in many ways, and pose many challenges as well. Should we fear or hope about the future of AI? I think it should be a mix of both.

AI will definitely eliminate some jobs, but will create new careers as well. AI can revolutionize several areas like security, agriculture, healthcare, and environment. But AI technology cannot match up to the kind of cognitive thought process that humans possess. In other words, AI can never infuse the artistry and unique human abilities to cater to specific or changing needs, or, no AI-powered human-like robot can exist with all versatilities that we possess.

We, humans, can understand and use concepts in permeable ways, tailor an accepted norms to suit a specific need, try related concepts, or brainstorm and find innovative ways and ideas. No AI-powered robots or machines can do all these perfectly.

Can a machine come up with ideas? It can give valuable insights that trigger ideas, but it’s up to us to translate the insights and connect the dots to create a perfect idea. Simply put, we humans will surely have a leg up on AI.

That said, no matter what the impact will be and however fast it will happen, there’s no denying that AI-powered robotics workforces will soon become a reality. But, can they completely surpass humans? I don’t think so.

Ohmni - The Telepresence Robot

The area of home robotics is highly interesting, and keeps growing by leaps and bounds. There is no dearth of robots that are available to do our domestic chores. Many companies are exploring newer and innovative ways to best address growing potential markets out there. Here comes the newest addition to this ever-growing list – Ohmni Telepresence, a robot that automatically connects so that you can easily video chat with your family members or roam around your house virtually. Isn’t that great? This smart robot is the brainchild of Ohmni Labs, co-founded by Jared Go and Thuc Vu. The company aims to bridge the gap between human connections and bring people together digitally.

Ohmni Telepresence is a home robot, and has a built-in camera that sits atop a tall shat. The base has a flat platform and wheels that are powered by Glide Drive that includes brushless motors that help get around easily and smoothly and not create disturbing noises. Ohmni Telepresence encompasses easy carry-on capabilities, and can be folded easily. It is 4’ 8” tall and weighs just 20lbs. No matter whether you are working hard at office or away on an important business trip Omni Telepresence helps communicate with your family easily. It also acts as a caretaker and keeps an eye on both children and old people at home. Ohmni has already helped someone save his mother’s life. A user from San Diego was on a business trip. He grew worried when his mother didn’t answer his calls one morning. He activated Ohmni and found that his mother was in bed, unwell and unresponsive. He was able to get her the needed medical attention right away.

Telepresence robot is not something totally new. But when it comes to usage at home, Ohmni is the first of its kind, stands out of the crowd for several reasons. It’s affordable pricing is the most important one among them. For just $1899, Ohmni Telepresence is definitely a great deal, given the number of amazing features that it contains. This telepresence robot comes bundled with a tablet, and includes auto docking station that helps charge the robot with a tap on your smartphone. The wheelbase of Ohmni Telepresence is a tripod, and its moving neck can be tilted to different angles as per your need.

You just have to log onto the website with an existing Google or Facebook account – or, there is absolutely no pesky software installation. Users can have Wi-Fi network credentials pre-installed easily on Ohmni Telepresence. The battery used is made of lithium iron phosphate. It’s safer than the commonly used batteries, and lasts for about 5 hours. Ohmni can be customized into different colours and materials. The robot is 100% remote controlled and work in real-time. Or, you don’t have to dial or call to keep in touch your dear ones.

The key advantage is the ease with which it brings together people who are separated by large distances.  While text and voice calling apps, help stay connected, Ohmni automatically connects and helps video chat easily. It lets you virtually join your family, interact, and experience life together.

Would you like to buy one for yourself?