In this article, we will explore the main four types of Artificial Intelligence. We also share real-world examples for better understanding. So, read this write-up till the end for complete information.

Artificial Intelligence is a comprehensive discipline that is mainly concerned with creating smart machines that are intelligent and can do tasks that require human intelligence. Moreover, it can learn and get better with more experience. AI has sub-branches like machine learning and deep learning.

Also Read: What are the Major Differences between AI and Machine Learning?

The Four Types of Artificial Intelligence with Examples

While classifying Artificial Intelligence based on functionality, there are four types of AI: Reactive Machines, Limited Memory, Theory of Mind, and Self-aware. Let us discuss each AI type.

#1. Reactive Machines

Reactive Machines are the first and primary form of Artificial Intelligence that has no past memory and is entirely associated with the present situation. They require an input which leads to the same output. This type of AI is efficient in evaluating the data and delivering optimum recommendations.

As the Reactive Machines do not consider past experience, they are not able to learn and enhance their output. Some input data will always be needed to get the result. Also, they can not work outside the predefined set of instructions. So, they have a restriction that they can not learn on their own and rectify their mistakes.

This type of AI model operates around a sophisticated set of rules so that the reactive machines are great while analyzing huge raw data. One of the best examples is evaluating the watching history of a user and recommending the best-suited shows on Netflix. Other prominent examples are IBM Deep Blue and Google AlphaGo.

#2. Limited Memory

Limited Memory is one stage further. It has a memory, although short-term, that works great in analyzing past data and delivering useful predictions with the help of predefined programs. It provides accurate results when given more data to process.

This type of AI does not save data for a long duration. It has features like reinforcement learning, Long Short Term Memory (LSTMs), and E-GAN (Evolutionary Generative Adversarial Networks).

The best example that resembles Limited memory AI is ‘Autonomous Cars’. They analyze the road, traffic, movements of other vehicles, and the shortest route. Based on this data, autonomous cars move on the road. These cars do not store the history of trips.

#3. Theory of Mind

Among the four types of artificial intelligence, Theory of Mind is an advanced AI type that does not exist currently. It would have the ability to understand the emotions, beliefs, and thought processes of other beings. It would be able to interact with humans like a real person. However, it exists only in theory, not practically.

Its capabilities will include the previous two types of AI (Reactive Machine and Limited Memory) and its own capability of understanding human sentiments and thoughts.

As theory of mind is not available presently, no examples are present either. However, some believe that it would have great applications in marketing, hospitality, and other sectors where understanding human mindset and emotions is mandatory.

#4. Self-aware

The most advanced type of AI is Self-aware. It goes like the Sci-fi movie concept. Machines that have a sense of self. They are aware of their existence, needs, and sustainability. These machines have motives and consciousness of what they want and how to get that.

It is completely conceptual at present because it is an even more updated version of the Theory of mind. The Self-aware AI would have the capabilities of Theory of mind to understand other people’s emotions and thought processes and also has a sense of self. All these characteristics make it an alternative to humans and, in fact, even better.

Like the Theory of mind, there is no real-world example of Self-aware AI existing right now. However, researchers are in continuous endeavors to create these advanced types of AI.

Are There Other AI Types Exist?

The above-mentioned four types of AI are based on functionalities. If we categorized the AI on the basis of capabilities, three more types will be added:

• Artificial Narrow Intelligence
• Artificial General Intelligence
• Artificial Super Intelligence

Final Words

Based on functioning, the four types of artificial intelligence are Reactive machines, Limited Memory, Theory of Mind, and Self-aware. The first two AI types exist and have real-world applications, while the later two types (Theory of Mind and Self-aware) are only conceptual. They do not exist currently. Researchers are continuously trying to unravel the workings of the human mind so that they can embed that potential into machines. However, it is still a long way to reach the goal.

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