Artificial Intelligence: Everything You Need to Know for 2019

An enhanced workforce dedicated to AI safety, big steps toward “general” intelligence, and so much more.

TL;DR

Expect an enhanced workforce dedicated to AI safety, big steps in reaching what’s known as “general” intelligence, and more of the same (i.e. “good” and “bad” applications of AI).

First, a small note on a massive idea

Unlike other emerging technologies, AI never seems to go away. It’s perpetually talked about, studied, revered, and feared.

It’s going to give robots sentience! And they’re going to take over the human race! And enslave us! And fold our laundry!

We’ve been obsessed with AI since the mid 20th century, philosophizing about how it will alter society by replacing jobs, girlfriends, and — dare I say it — human intelligence. Will we be better off? Or just WALL-E chair people?

As you can see by this ultra-scientific Google Trends chart, AI interest is growing. Maybe it’s amplified by sensational stories of backflipping robots or Stephen Hawking quotes or Jeopardy champions, but unlike other emerging tech trends (looking at you Bitcoin), there are few peaks and valleys. We’re…