Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to computer systems that can perform tasks which normally require human intelligence, such as recognising speech, understanding language, identifying objects in images, learning from data and making decisions. Instead of being explicitly programmed for every situation, many AI systems learn patterns from large amounts of data. For example, a voice assistant learns to interpret spoken commands, a recommendation system learns what kind of videos or products you might like, and a fraud detection system learns to flag unusual transactions.

A key branch of AI is machine learning, where algorithms improve their performance with experience. Deep learning, a subset of machine learning, uses artificial neural networks inspired by the structure of the human brain to handle very complex tasks like image or language understanding. AI is already widely used: in maps and navigation, translation tools, spam filters, face unlock, social media feeds and industrial automation. Alongside benefits such as increased efficiency, better decision support and personalised services, AI also raises important concerns about job displacement, bias in algorithms, privacy, and misuse of technologies like deepfakes. Responsible AI development requires transparency, accountability, fairness checks, and regulations that protect people while still allowing innovation.