In a recent issue of the futurist there is a set of interviews titled The AI Chaser. This article discussed a number of subtle ways that robotic capabilities are being introduced. I find it interesting that a many of the things discussed or illustrated (e.g., the robotic eaves trough cleaner) are being accepted into people’s lives without any thought about the underlying technology.

The article asks some thought leaders about their perspective on AI and robotic technology on the human condition. Most of them have a very positive view, but there is an edge to most of the visions where there is a loss of or monopolization of technology control. Maybe it is just the recent Sarah Conner Chronicles that is bringing this issue to mind. ;-)

At least for the cases where a country or business, supply and demand issues will enable those who have an advantage to exercise it. Today, it seems that once a technology is known, it is cloned or even improved by someone else in a very short period, so having someone with a long term advantage may not really be too much of a concern.

One of the topics I’ve blogged about before was brought up in the article:

“the advent of AI could allow us to push aside a lot of the tasks that we sometimes don't have the patience for, tasks that are too rigorous or too arduous.”

This perspective is definitely one that most business could use to their advantage.

Charlie Bess
EDS' Next Big Thing Blog