AI (Artificial Intelligence) has officially entered the zeitgeist – and most developers are now using it in some form to supercharge their work.
But what exactly is AI? And what does it do, beyond a large language model like ChatGPT? Vindico developer Shaun Beynon-Thomas sums up what you need to know – and how it’s helping software developers to improve accuracy and increase productivity.
AI is more of a blanket term these days, relating to multiple systems in one. In the broadest sense, AI is a technology that lets computers and machines simulate human intelligence and problem-solving capabilities.Aside from large language models like ChatGPT, Artificial Intelligence also takes the form of:
Machine Learning: Algorithms that enable systems to learn and improve from experience
Computer Vision: Which enables machines to interpret and make decisions based on visual input
Robotics: The creation of machines that can perform tasks autonomously
When it comes to software development, a 2023 GitHub survey found that 92% of developers are already using AI at work. Aside from helping developers to increase productivity, improve accuracy, and fix bugs, developers are also anticipating that AI will enhance team collaboration – something we’re already seeing among our dev team here at Vindico.
AI is also facilitating deeper integration into web and mobile applications. These include:
Enhanced User Experiences: Using AI for personalised recommendations, chatbots, and voice interfaces
Improved Development Tools: AI-powered code completion and debugging tools
Automated Testing: AI-driven testing frameworks that can predict and detect issues faster
Data-Driven Insights: Incorporating AI to analyse user behaviour and improve application performance
Security Enhancements: AI for detecting and preventing security threats in real-time
When it comes to AI’s capabilities, its multi-modal potential excites me most – to see what level of automation can be used to handle text to image, image to video, and so forth.
But it’s not all plain sailing when it comes to AI – and the moral implications of Artificial Intelligence are significant.
There is a huge responsibility to make sure AI systems are designed and used ethically, avoiding biases that can lead to unfair treatment or discrimination.
Privacy is also paramount as AI systems require and process vast amounts of data.
There’s also a need for tight regulations and standards to make sure AI technologies are developed and used responsibly, too.
But provided it’s used ethically and transparently, AI is proving a game-changer for developers, and it seems to be helping us enhance our teams, our output, and our ability to go beyond our clients’ expectations.
To find out more about Vindico’s bespoke software development – and how it can help your business gain an edge – click here to get in touch today.
Shaun Beynon-Thomas is part of the award-winning dev team at Vindico. He’s worked on projects for brands including Welsh Athletics, Swansea BID, Gaia Group UK, and GS Verde. His personal areas of interest include music production, motorsport, and embedded hardware.
