Machine learning and artificial intelligence are aspects of computer science that are interrelated. Both are trending in recent times and lots of research and studies are conducted on both these fields of study. Both technologies are integral in creating a further advanced version of artificial intelligence. Hence major IT companies, scientists, and renowned researchers are trying to study machine learning vs artificial intelligence and incorporate these two technologies together for the achievement of a more advanced version of AI.
Though these two terms are related, they have different meanings and are applied in different cases. On a broader level, machine learning and artificial intelligence can be differentiated as follows:
AI is the overall concept that deals with developing machines that are capable of performing human functions and tasks, by processing past information, adjusting changes in inputs, etc.
On the other hand, machine learning is a part of AI, without which AI wouldn’t be able to achieve its purpose. With proper integration of machine learning, machines can learn from data without needing explicit programming.
Artificial intelligence vs machine learning: detailed discussion
We have discussed machine learning vs artificial intelligence in detail below. We have also explained how both these aspects overlap with one another.
- Artificial Intelligence
This is a field of computer studies that seek to create or develop machines capable of performing tasks and functions like humans. Besides, being able to carry out tasks with utmost accuracy, advanced versions of AI also seeks to incorporate the major traits of human beings like emotions, rationality, etc., into these machines.
Artificial intelligence is divided into different types, which we have mentioned later. The basic concept of artificial intelligence means an “artificial thinking power”.
Now, an important part of artificial intelligence is machine learning algorithms like deep learning, neural networks, reinforcement learning, etc. Currently, we have achieved weak AI. Further research is being conducted and an advanced version of AI is soon to be achieved, that’s expected to be even smarter than humans.
- Machine learning
Machine learning seeks to instruct machines on how to extract meaning from the data. It’s a subcategory of artificial intelligence which lets machines learn from past data. The best part is there’s no need to program the machine beforehand.
With proper implementation of machine learning, a computer system can display predictions or suggestions by processing historical data. Machine language includes a massive amount of structured and semi-structured data so that devices integrated with machine learning can guarantee accurate results.
Machine learning is restrictive and limited in its scope. It works only for specific domains. For instance, if a machine learning device is created to detect dog pictures, it will display only dog images. If you provide different data, like a cat image, the system would be rendered unresponsive. People have integrated machine learning in various areas like email spam filters, Google search results, auto friend suggestions on Facebook, etc.
Key differences between Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine learning (ML)
Now that you know what each of these terms means, let’s go through this comprehensive guide on machine learning vs artificial intelligence.
- Definition :
Artificial intelligence is the technology that develops machines aiming to mimic human intellect.
Machine learning is a part of AI, which enables a machine to learn from past inputs and show results accordingly.
- Purpose :
The purpose of AI is to develop smarter computers that can not only solve tasks with greater efficiency and accuracy but also overreach humans in every aspect.
The purpose of machine learning is the help machines understand the language from data entered.
- Functioning :
AI technologies try to create machines that can ease the life of humans. The study includes reasoning, learning, and self-correction.
Machine learning on the other hand works to allow machines to understand data to perform a particular task with accuracy and give reliable results. It’s limited in its scope and mainly deals with semi-structured and structured data.
- Applications:
The main areas of AI applications are online games streaming, Google Assistant, Siri, intelligent humanoid robots, etc.
The main applications of machine learning are Google search algorithms, online recommender mechanisms, etc.
By now, you have understood the major differences between artificial intelligence and machine learning. Though artificial intelligence is a wider concept and seeks to achieve a bigger purpose, it’s incomplete with machine learning.