We learn more about how AI and advanced robotics are showing promise in alleviating problems, caring for the needy, and entertaining us when our spirits need lifting.
The rapid advancements we’re seeing in AI (artificial intelligence) and robotics have naturally spooked some parts of the internet, which can only lead us to assume that we’re diving headfirst into the dystopian world of the Terminator film franchise.
Even OpenAI, the company behind the popular ChatGPT, realises we need to apply the brakes at some point:
“At some point, it may be important to get independent review before starting to train future systems, and for the most advanced efforts to agree to limit the rate of growth of compute used for creating new models.”
While we acknowledge that checks and balances are necessary, we want to take a breath and explore the areas where we are already seeing multiple silver linings.
Join us as we explore the current and emerging applications of these innovative new technologies and how we can benefit from them.
There are so many industries that are using AI and robotics in concert with one another that we decided to focus on how this new tech is able to help us and, on the flip side, entertain us:
We have previously looked at how the advancements in BCIs (Brain–Computer Interface) have shown enhanced accessibility benefits. While technologies like Neuralink might seem a little too cyberpunk and costly, for the average person, they are not the only AI-driven assistive technologies out there.
Meta Glasses for the Visually Impaired:
Visual impairment is a worldwide limitation and is likely to impact all of us at some point, if only through the ageing process. Several companies are working on a variety of technology-only and human-assisted solutions.
eSight: These glasses use high-spec high-definition cameras to stream continuous video footage to the wearer. The lenses are, in fact, mini HD OLED screens offering a rich viewing experience and the option to zoom in and out depending on your needs. You can even adjust things like brightness and contrast using an app on your mobile device.
Envision: Their glasses come with a built-in AI assistant that allows the wearer to activate the assistant and ask it a question about what they are looking at, whether it's something simple, like which button is the off switch, or more complex topics, like the history of the building in front of them. In one example, the user even asks the assistant to check the menu and suggest an ideal option based on his previous orders.
BeMyEyes: Built into the Ray Ban Meta Glasses, this software product is ideal for those who prefer the human touch. The app allows users to connect in real-time with a visual assistance volunteer, allowing for open dialogue and a natural problem solution through interaction.
AI and Robotics in Healthcare:
The National Library of Medicine put out a report titled ‘Ethical implications of AI and robotics in healthcare: A review’, in which they delve into the pros and cons of assistive tech.
They noted that the integration of AI and robotics will offer several benefits, including enhanced diagnostic accuracy, improved efficiency in clinical workflows, personalised patient care, and a marked reduction in human error.
Not only that, but robotics can also reduce the burden of repetitive tasks, delivering them faster and with fewer errors, allowing clinicians to focus on patient care and higher-level decision-making.
Robot Pets for Dementia Patients:
Frontiers, one of the largest research publishers in the world, published an article titled ‘The ethics of pet robots in dementia care settings: Care professionals’ and organisational leaders’ ethical intuitions’ where they investigated the use of robot pets in dementia care.
The report was generally optimistic as patients who participated in the study saw a reduction in feelings of isolation, improved mood, became more communicative, and a decrease in stress levels.
They are also currently looking at other avenues of robotic care, which could see them receive 24/7 support without the need for an on-site nurse.
From the merciful to the mundane, we cannot deny that humanity craves entertainment, and this technology has a lot to offer in this regard.
Video Game NPCs Come to Life:
While all gamers crave that immersive Ready Player One experience, we first have to lay a foundation for in-game interactions that aren’t scripted. One of the first examples of this was the release of the Mantella mod for the popular role-playing game (RPG) Skyrim.
Once the mod was installed, players could approach any of the game's NPCs (non-playable characters), cast the Mantella spell on them, and they would stand still and begin speaking to the players. The mod used ChatGPT, Whisper, and xVASynth to generate the conversation and custom voices for the NPCs.
More recently, Fortnite, in partnership with Disney, allowed players to acquire Darth Vader as an NPC who travelled with them as they battled enemies. Players could then have a conversation with the dark Lord of Star Wars. Best of all, Darth Vader was voiced using James Earl Jones, making it a very nostalgic experience for fans of the originals.
Seamless Voice and Facial Animation:
Nvidia has transitioned from a gaming-first company to an AI-first company. One of their exciting new developments is Audio2Face-3D. This tool allows real-time lip-syncing and supports facial animations of a 3D model.
Work that would take animators days to complete can now be done by anyone with access to a decent computer and an internet connection. This opens the door for incredible gaming and video content from up-and-coming creatives who usually might never have had the opportunity to show what they can do.
Skies the Limit of Online Gambling:
Many of these features can be applied in positive ways to our favourite pastime, playing casino games. The most accessible solutions use AI technology to create personalised bonuses and recommendations for every day players. With the introduction of VR (virtual reality), we can push the boundaries of what is possible by having the AI create custom gambling experiences.
Looking to the future, we delved into a technology called Blindsight and how it was a light at the end of the tunnel for visually impaired gamblers, as it had the potential to offer digitally enhanced sight that was better than natural sight.
We even discussed the potential for future casinos designed around neural interfaces, allowing for lightning-quick gaming without the need for external interfaces or peripherals, such as a mouse and keyboard, or even a mobile phone.
While we hope that companies like OpenAI and its peers pursue these exciting developments with the care and insight they require, we cannot allow ‘what ifs’ to burden us.
All we can do is encourage you to make the most of the day you have before you. If you are an outdoors person, go for a nice walk. Prefer to stay jacked, go hit the gym. And if your ideal afternoon is one spent playing slots or crash games, check out our recommended online casinos. “Carpe diem”, seize the day.
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