What's next for Artificial Intelligence: MIT Technology Review predicts AI trends for 2024

The future of AI: As the artificial intelligence revolution gathers steam, more countries are implementing regulations for the better development of this technology. The European Commission, in April 2021, proposed the first EU regulatory framework for AI. 

“It says that AI systems that can be used in different applications are analysed and classified according to the risk they pose to users. The different risk levels will mean more or less regulation. Once approved, these will be the world’s first rules on AI,” the EU Parliament website says.

According to MIT Technology Review, multimodal AI and regulatory changes will predict the future of the business and technology landscape.

Customised chatbots take centre stage

As we step into 2024, the focus on chatbots is shifting towards customisation. Tech giants like Google and OpenAI are investing heavily in generative AI, aiming to make their products more user-friendly. The introduction of web-based tools allows individuals to create personalised chatbots without the need for coding skills. This move towards customisation could bring generative AI closer to everyday users, paving the way for innovative applications in various fields.

However, the success of this trend hinges on addressing challenges such as reliability, biases, and security concerns associated with generative AI models. As more people engage with these technologies, companies will need to provide solutions for potential issues like misinformation and ethical concerns.

Generative AI's next wave: Video

Building on the success of generative models creating photorealistic images, the next frontier is text-to-video. MIT Technology Review predicts a surge in generative AI creating video content, with improvements in quality and applications. From deepfake technology in movies to marketing and training purposes, the capabilities of generative AI in the video domain are expanding rapidly.

However, concerns arise regarding the ethical use of deepfake technology, especially in the context of elections. The potential for AI-generated election disinformation and deepfakes raises alarms about the impact on political landscapes globally. As this technology becomes more accessible, efforts to track and mitigate AI-generated content will be crucial to combat misinformation.

Robots that multitask

Inspired by the success of single, monolithic models in generative AI, roboticists are adopting a similar approach. The shift towards general-purpose robots capable of multitasking is gaining momentum. Researchers are exploring ways to train robots to perform a wider range of tasks using a unified model, eliminating the need for specialised models for each function.

While promising, the challenge lies in the scarcity of data available for training these multitasking robots. Innovations in generating training data through trial and error, along with large datasets released by companies, indicate a positive trajectory for this approach. The impact of multitasking robots is expected to extend across various industries, including driverless cars.

AI regulations

AI policy and regulation took center stage in 2023, with the introduction of significant laws such as the European Union's AI Act. Looking ahead to 2024, MIT Technology Review anticipates a transition from policy vision to concrete actions. In the United States, President Biden's executive order on AI sets the stage for increased transparency and standards, with the establishment of the US AI Safety Institute.

In Europe, the AI Act is poised to bring sweeping changes, particularly for high-risk AI applications in sectors like education, healthcare, and policing. The legislation emphasises transparency, accountability, and mitigation of risks associated with powerful AI models.

China, traditionally following a fragmented approach to AI regulation, is contemplating a comprehensive AI law. This law aims to cover various aspects, similar to the EU's AI Act. The potential impact on AI companies, particularly in compliance and safety reviews, will be a focal point in 2024.

The government of India has mandated NITI Aayog to establish the National Programme on AI to guide the research and development of new and emerging technologies. In pursuance of the above. The think tank has adopted a three-pronged approach – undertaking exploratory proof-of-concept AI projects in various areas, crafting a national strategy for building a vibrant AI ecosystem in India, and collaborating with various experts and stakeholders, according to a NITI Aayog report.