Artificial intelligence and machine learning are not the same thing

Often confused, these are two interrelated but different technologies: artificial intelligence creates the architecture, machine learning improves it

We often hear people talk about artificial intelligence and machine learning, two terms whose common denominator is the latest revolutions in technology. But what is artificial intelligence and how does it differ from machine learning?

To answer this question we must start by describing the two technologies separately. First of all, it is worth noting right away that although they are closely related, artificial intelligence and machine learning are not the same thing. It would be more correct to define them as two sides of the same coin. Artificial intelligence, in fact, is the science that for years has aimed to develop machines capable of making decisions in perfect autonomy. The thought immediately runs to robots. Advanced learning, instead, is the algorithm that makes computers even more intelligent.

Artificial intelligence

Don't you understand yet? Well, some more concrete examples will help to better understand the two concepts. Artificial intelligence could be defined as the science that develops the architecture necessary for machines to function like the human brain. Have you ever heard of neural networks? It is a computer system that attempts to mimic biological neural networks. The ultimate goal of AI (artificial intelligence) is, as anticipated, to create computers with reasoning capabilities similar (if not equal) to humans.

Machine learning

Machine learning, on the other hand, is the algorithm that allows intelligent machines to improve with time, just as they do with the human brain. Without advanced learning, in fact, it would not be possible to put artificial intelligence "in motion." Let's take an example. Self-driving cars rely on both artificial intelligence and advanced learning. Machine learning allows the car to remember the road travelled or to recognize and avoid obstacles previously encountered. In short, thanks to advanced learning, computers equipped with artificial intelligence, learn.