The Rise of Ambient Intelligence: How AI is Becoming Integrated into Our Everyday Objects

Recent advancements in algorithms and the computational capabilities of computers have skyrocketed development in the 21st century. Many everyday products and services have now integrated use of AI, such popular digital tools like Grammarly, Siri, and Adobe Photoshop. 

Recent technological trends show exponentially increased use of AI tools and everyday individual interaction with AI. An article by Juniper Research shows that in 2020, the public interacted with an estimated 4.2 billion devices that use AI voice assistants, but that number jumped to 8.4 billion by 2024.  

These trends are largely due to increased accuracy and capabilities of these technologies. For example, 2020 saw its strongest facial identification algorithm accomplish an error rate of nearly negligible 0.08%, while 2014’s best algorithm still had about 4.1% error in its identification. Many AI technologies are rapidly improving in their abilities and potential applications. This is very promising for companies attempting to adopt AI into their own products, and that can be seen in a variety of smart devices, from phones, laptops, and tablets to vacuum cleaners, washing machines, and lighting systems. 

There are a few primary ways that AI is being adapted into smart devices that we interact with in a daily basis.

​AI in Smart Design & Interfaces

The most common use of AI in technology is smarter design and interfaces for electronic devices. AI can be adapted to perform all kinds of tasks within personal computing devices, such as facial recognition, virtual voice-activated assistants, navigation, and much more. These AI enhancements are used to improve the efficiency of the device and create a smoother and easier user experience. 

The Galaxy AI software in the Samsung S24 phone models is a perfect example of this; the AI is less of a specific feature and more a collection of different ones, including live translations, camera enhancements, and writing assistance. The LG C3 Series Smart TV also utilizes AI, in this case primarily to power its 4K picture quality by automatically adjusting content for optimal display. It is also used in personalizing interfaces based on user behavior and better providing individualized recommendations.  

While these kinds of AI use are relatively expected, other companies are using the technology in even more innovative ways. The TP-Link Deco Tri-Band WiFi Mesh System uses AI to optimize its network performance by learning the patterns and behaviors of its users and adapting the system to fit their needs, such as changing its data transmission paths or rerouting traffic if one specific Deco is overwhelmed.  

These applications of AI smart design display the kinds of reach this technology can have for a variety of different devices. While these capabilities are certainly exciting, many of these features still require further improvement, such as Samsung’s multifaceted Galaxy AI still struggling at times with accuracy and reliability at times. 
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AI in Security ​

One of the least visible ways AI is being adapted into technology is for security purposes. AI in security works by using sophisticated algorithms to analyze video feeds and identify patterns or anomalies in real-time. One example of an AI-powered security device is the Ring, a 360° camera that can monitor the home and allow users to see and communicate with visitors at their door.  ​

AI-powered security systems, such as the eufy Security E220 Indoor Cam and the Ring,, leverage advanced computer vision techniques to detect and recognize people, objects, and specific behaviors. With Human & Pet AI, these cameras can differentiate between humans and pets, ensuring relevant and accurate notifications. The AI algorithms continuously learn and adapt, improving their ability to identify potential security threats.  ​

Eufy Security Indoor Camera

Facial recognition technology in AI-powered security cameras analyzes unique facial features to identify individuals or flag unknown faces. These AI systems continuously learn, improving accuracy and distinguishing between normal and suspicious activities. By reducing false alarms and human reliance, AI integration enhances security monitoring efficiency. As AI advances, we can expect further improvements in security systems, increasing safety in homes and public spaces. However, some critique the vast amounts of data these companies can now collect through these technologies. 

AI in Home Goods ​

The ideal smart home system is one that seamlessly integrates various smart devices and appliances to create a fully connected and automated living space. With the advancement of AI technology, this vision is becoming a reality.  

For instance, the Shark AV2511AE AI Ultra Robot Vacuum is a product that showcases the potential of AI in home goods. This intelligent vacuum cleaner utilizes advanced AI features such as Matrix Clean and Home Mapping to map out the house internally and clean each space efficiently. The AI can also connect with other AI, like Alexa, to be controlled and monitored remotely. ​

Shark AI Ultra Robot Vacuum

Imagine having the ability to digitally monitor and manage your entire house, from e-refrigerators that track food inventory to smart lighting systems that adapt to your preferences and activities. The future of homes is increasingly appearing as AI integration into everyday household items, which may offer convenience and efficiency to homeowners, but may to others make homes feel impersonal and disconnected from reality. 
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Why Does This Matter?

It is clear to anyone looking at business and technology trends that AI is a dominant presence in most markets and probably here to stay. According to the McKinsey Global Survey, 55% of respondents have reported adoption of AI into their organizations as of 2023.  

So, what does this mean for companies, employees, and consumers? Why does this matter? 

Well, on the bright side, AI implementation in everyday products can have a variety of benefits. For one, consumers get better technology, with increased efficiency, higher accuracy, and more intuitive design. This makes technology not only easier to use and navigate, but also makes the average individual better at using their smart devices. AI also makes products highly personalized, allowing users to get tailored recommendations and interfaces.  

Many companies also now understand that users want to be able to use these technologies, but only to the extent that they are comfortable. That means many of these devices have certain AI features that can be turned on or off, putting the choice in the consumer’s hands.  

Lastly, even in common products, AI implementation encourages new innovations and even the creation of new markets and industries. Since the creation of AI voice-controlled assistants, an entire market of virtual home assistance has been developed, including products like Amazon’s Echo, Google Home, and the Samsung SmartThings Hub.  

On the other hand, there are some issues many have pointed out with the mass integration of these kinds of software. Firstly, privacy and safety have increasingly become a concern, as many of these devices collect data about consumers that could be sold to advertisement agencies and larger companies. Some also worry that this trend will create an over-reliance on technology, increasing our dependence on these AI-powered tools and encouraging less and less human interaction. 

Additionally, many consumers fear new changes in the market, and employees similarly dislike new innovations as they are often developed without active participation of the employees and are often forced to simply adapt under pressure from higher management. With such a large proportion of companies adopting AI technologies, many businesses may feel it is a necessity to do so as well, even if it may be costly or unnecessary. ​

Overall, AI is increasingly making its way into our daily routines, and as we come into a new digital age, it's important that we understand what that can mean for all of us, from any one individual to large corporations. 
 
What do you think about AI’s role in our lives? Drop your thoughts in the comments below! 
 
If you want to learn more about AI’s many applications, check out our article on AI in 3D Modeling.  
If you want to read more about up-and-coming technological innovations, check out this page on 2024’s trends. 

By Grace Whitfield & Clayton Tsoi  
Grace is a graphic designer and multimedia artist. She is enthusiastic about up-and-coming art technologies and emerging creative fields, like immersive installation art, UX/UI design, and virtual and augmented reality. 

Clayton is an Electronic Engineer. He is passionate about problem-solving and improving API and software skills and aims to take on increasingly challenging projects  while delivering effective solutions. 

Linkedin (Grace): https://www.linkedin.com/in/grace-whitfield5/  
Linkedin (Clayton): https://www.linkedin.com/in/claytontsoi/