Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to the simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, particularly computer systems. These processes include learning, reasoning, problem-solving, perception, and language understanding. AI can be categorized into two main types: narrow AI, which is designed for specific tasks (such as voice recognition, image analysis, or playing chess), and general AI, which refers to systems that possess the ability to perform any intellectual task that a human can do, though this level of AI has not yet been achieved.

The development of AI technologies involves various fields, including machine learning, natural language processing, robotics, and computer vision. Machine learning, a subset of AI, uses algorithms to analyze data, learn from it, and make decisions or predictions without being explicitly programmed for each specific situation. This allows AI systems to improve their performance over time as they are exposed to more data.

AI is already being applied in many sectors, such as healthcare for diagnostics, finance for fraud detection, customer service through chatbots, and autonomous vehicles. As AI technology continues to evolve, it raises important ethical questions about privacy, employment, and decision-making, making it a crucial area for ongoing research and discussion.