We began this century with fears of automation and sentient robots. Even preceding the release of sci-fi classics such as ‘The Terminator’ and ‘The Matrix’, many of us have experienced an inexplicable anxiety of becoming overpowered by our own creation, since the birth of the first digital computers in the 1940s. Now, we approach the dawn of a new technological era: artificial intelligence. Whilst the world’s leading voices from Silicon Valley reassure that this new technological tool will benefit users, many wonder, are we simply allowing ourselves to be manipulated into a blissful ignorance of our current situation? Or will this technology truly change our lives for the better, forever?

After conducting experiments measuring human versus AI performance, it was observed that in the last decade AI has developed to outperform humans in various activities, such as recognising faces and languages. One particular use of its unprecedented power is the AI chatbot known as ChatGPT. Launched in November 2022, it exploded into success as its user base grew by an enormous 9,900% within 60 days of first appearing to the public. Yet, one pressing concern is what ChatGPT does with the information we provide it. The truth is, to improve the chatbot’s accuracy, everything you type is stored and monitored. If this doesn’t make you uncomfortable, ChatGPT also stores your device information, email address, phone number, location and network activity. This seemingly excessive data storage has led several companies to ban employees from using it, because with the huge amount of data you agree to give away, the potential consequences of a security breach would be severe.

Furthermore, since the availability of AI image generators to the public, reports of it being used to forge identities and create offensive images have been circulating the Internet and causing extreme distress for victims. With few effective methods to control these issues today, the dangers surrounding AI will continue to exist until strict regulations are placed on its use.

Fortunately, it’s not just bad news. The benefits of AI have been enormous for everyone, from cancer patients to trend forecasters. In fact, AI may be more involved in your life than you realise. The function in the Photos app that categorises your photos by face? AI. The suggested words that appear every time you type into a search bar? AI. The voice assistants ready to answer any question at your beck and call? AI. Artificial intelligence is already ingrained in our lives, so it's not a matter of whether we are ready to introduce AI into the world, but rather if we are prepared to take it to the next level.

AI is no longer a work of science fiction and I, for one, am ready to embrace the future. While it is clear that yes, work needs to be done quickly to ensure that this new power is not abused, AI is an inevitable part of our future, and one with great potential.