Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a branch of computer science that focuses on creating systems capable of performing tasks that typically require human intelligence. These tasks include understanding natural language, recognizing patterns, learning from experience, making decisions, and solving problems. AI can be categorized into two primary types: narrow AI, which is designed to handle specific tasks (such as voice assistants or recommendation systems), and general AI, which aims to replicate human cognitive abilities across a wide range of activities.

AI utilizes various techniques, including Machine Learning, where algorithms learn from data to improve their performance over time, and Deep Learning, which involves neural networks that mimic human brain processes to analyze large datasets. Applications of AI can be found in various fields, such as healthcare (for diagnostics and treatment recommendations), finance (for fraud detection and automated trading), transportation (in self-driving vehicles), and entertainment (like chatbots and personalized content recommendations).

The development and deployment of AI bring numerous benefits as well as ethical considerations, including issues related to privacy, accountability, and the potential impact on jobs and society. As AI continues to evolve, it poses both opportunities and challenges that require careful consideration by policymakers, technologists, and communities worldwide.