AUTOMATIVE OR AUTONOMOUS AI? KNOW THE DIFFERENCE
If you have ever used a chatbot, you will be tempted to think about the ability a program has to provide impressive responses to your questions. So, is a chatbot automated or is it autonomous?
Researchers in Japan have tested driving a car with a humanoid robot. And, Tesla has advanced in the development of self-driving cars. What processes do they use, automated or autonomous?
It can be confusing to think about artificial intelligence in terms of the ability of a machine to automate processes and the capability of a machine to be autonomous. Both of them are not mutually exclusive of each other. For instance, it would take automation to achieve an autonomous system.
The question to answer then is what are automation and autonomy in Artificial Intelligence? Or what is the difference between automative and autonomous AI?
AUTOMATIVE AI
Anything on automation is largely repetitive, rarely deviates from its tasks, and requires human direction.
Automative AI refers to systems designed to automate specific tasks according to predefined rules and instructions. These systems require human oversight to function correctly and typically do not make independent decisions beyond their programmed capabilities.
Automation is highly useful for repetitive and time-consuming tasks, enhancing efficiency and consistency.
Examples of AI Automation
Robotic Process Automation (RPA) - RPA software is used to automate routine business processes such as data entry, invoice processing, and customer service responses. For instance, an RPA tool can handle thousands of transactions per day, ensuring accuracy and freeing human workers to focus on more complex tasks.
In manufacturing, Industrial robots on assembly lines perform repetitive tasks such as welding, painting, and assembling parts. These robots follow precise instructions and enhance productivity while maintaining high-quality standards.
Many businesses use chatbots to handle customer inquiries on their websites. These AI systems are programmed to provide responses to common questions, guide users through processes, and escalate more complex issues to human agents.
AUTONOMOUS AI
Anything autonomous talks about systems that can perform tasks, make decisions, and adapt to new situations without human intervention. Autonomous AI systems leverage machine learning, deep learning, and other advanced techniques, unlike automated systems.
The power to operate independently, and make decisions based on data and learned experiences reflects the autonomy given to machines and where the future of mankind is going.
Examples of Autonomous Systems
Self-driving cars are autonomous systems. Tesla and Waymo are very advanced in the use of AI to create vehicles that can navigate roads, interpret traffic signals, and avoid obstacles without human input. These cars utilize sensors, cameras, and sophisticated algorithms to make real-time driving decisions.
In the medical line, AI-powered diagnostic tools like IBM Watson Health are tools used to analyze medical data and provide diagnostic recommendations. These systems learn from vast amounts of medical records and research to assist doctors in making accurate diagnoses and treatment plans.
There are autonomous drones equipped with AI that can perform various tasks, such as surveillance, agricultural monitoring, and package delivery. Companies like Amazon and DJI are developing drones that can navigate complex environments, recognize objects, and adapt to changing conditions autonomously.
The level of human intervention required and the capability for independent decision-making is the distinction between automative and autonomous AI.
An artificial intelligence system on automation excels in efficiency and consistency for repetitive tasks under human supervision, while autonomous AI pushes the boundaries of independence, performing complex tasks and making decisions based on learned data.
As AI technology advances, the line between these categories may blur, leading to more sophisticated systems capable of both automation and autonomy in various applications.