Mobile Technology: AI in Phones

Here’s a look at what AI is and how it is shaping your smartphone’s design and function.

What Is AI?

AI is the study and development of machines and computer programs that simulate human intelligence and tackle assigned tasks.

As an arm of computer science, its history goes back at least six decades.

Even Spotify’s music recommendations are a form of AI.

ML doesn’t merely teach a computer to perform a task.

Instead, it teaches computers how to “think” and act (somewhat) independently using algorithms.

They optimize the performance of tasks based on data analysis rather than solely human input.

ML’s use of algorithms has helped push AI to the forefront of technology.

Smartphones offer many of the features a standard computer has, and it makes calls.

AI is behind much of this evolution.

It’s responsible for the ability to addspecial effects, too.

One example is the Google Pixel’sSuper Res Zoom.

It uses an algorithm, rather than the lens, to zoom in on a subject.

An AI algorithm produces detailed “up close” photos without the user having to crop them.

Facial recognition software such as iPhone’sFace IDenables users to unlock their phones using their faces.

AI and ML algorithms turn on the smartphone’s camera to recognize its user and grant access.

Microsoft’s Cortana assistant has different voices depending on the region.

For digital assistants, once you make a request, the command goes to servers that carry it out.

That’s a simplification, but it’s generally how it works.