The year 2023 marked a significant leap for generative AI, transitioning from research labs to practical applications accessible to millions. Notable tools such as ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot became increasingly integrated with daily tasks. The recent rebranding of Google’s AI chatbot Bard to Gemini and the introduction of Gemini Advanced further emphasized the integration of AI into everyday life through subscription plans like Google One. As we move into 2024, AI is poised to become more accessible, nuanced, and seamlessly integrated into technologies addressing global challenges.
5 AI trends in 2024
- Rise of Small Language models (SLMs)
Small Language Models (SLMs) are poised to be a groundbreaking trend in 2024. Unlike Large Language Models, which demand substantial computing resources, SLMs have a more manageable size, with several billion parameters.
“Small language models can make AI more accessible due to their size and affordability,” says Sebastien Bubeck, who leads the Machine Learning Foundations group at Microsoft Research. “At the same time, we’re discovering new ways to make them as powerful as large language models.”
Microsoft researchers have introduced two SLMs – Phi and Orca – that challenge the conventional belief that larger models are necessary for superior performance. By leveraging curated, high-quality training data, SLMs are expected to foster more research and innovation in the coming year.
- Enhanced Experience with Multimodal AI
“Multimodality has the power to create more human-like experiences that can better take advantage of the range of senses we use as humans, such as sight, speech and hearing,” says Jennifer Marsman, principal engineer for Microsoft’s Office of the Chief Technology Officer, Kevin Scott.
As our engagements become more diverse and engaging, multimodality is rising as a prominent trend in AI. While most Large Language Models (LLMs) are limited to processing a single data type—text—multimodal models excel in comprehending information from various sources such as text, images, audio, and video. This capability leads to more precise and enriched outcomes, fostering comprehensive experiences. Consequently, technologies spanning from search tools to creativity apps are undergoing enhancements, resulting in richer, more accurate, and seamless functionalities.
- AI Accelerating Developments in Science
AI is anticipated to play a pivotal role in accelerating scientific discoveries, particularly in addressing global challenges like climate change, energy crises, and diseases. The application of AI in materials science, aimed at creating new materials with specific properties, showcases its potential to drive breakthroughs.
“Artificial intelligence is driving a revolution in scientific discovery,” says Chris Bishop, director of theAI4Science team at Microsoft Research. “That may turn out to be the most exciting, and ultimately the most important, application of AI.”
- Democratization of AI
The momentum behind the democratization of AI is growing, with an increasing number of individuals embracing a range of user-friendly and easily accessible AI applications. These apps seamlessly integrate into daily life, allowing more people to tap into the benefits of this technology.
Businesses are also beginning to acknowledge the substantial value that AI brings to various sectors. The democratization of AI carries significant implications for individuals, businesses, and society at large, shaping the way we interact with technology and unlocking new possibilities for innovation and efficiency.
“We believe that the cultural understanding of media will change radically in the coming years. The cost and skill barriers to content creation are evaporating, and new, altered forms of communication are on the rise (think TikTok). Many more digital channels will arise and we’ll see more personalized media than ever. This will change the way we communicate with each other, both on a personal level and in a broad media context,” says Victor Riparbelli, Synthesia CEO.
- Digital Twins Reshaping Digital Interactions
Digital twins are becoming essential as our engagements transition to the digital realm, finding importance in domains like online meetings, shopping experiences, and healthcare. Their potential applications span from virtual assistants and customer service representatives to personalized virtual actors and influencers. These realistic digital representations also enable immersive virtual experiences, foster remote collaboration, and may even serve as companions in gaming and entertainment. Looking forward, digital twins are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping our digital interactions.
The year 2024 unfolds with promising AI trends that highlight the continuous evolution and integration of artificial intelligence into our daily lives. As we embrace these advancements, the future holds exciting possibilities for the intersection of technology and human experience.
Read next: Surgical AR/VR poised for widespread adoption with Apple’s Vision Pro launch, predicts GlobalData