Artificial intelligence (AI) is a branch of computer science that involves creating machines or systems capable of performing tasks that usually require human intelligence. These processes can include learning and adapting, problem-solving, language interpretation, and perception.

This technology encompasses a wide array of cognitive capabilities such as vision, natural language processing, speech recognition, and more. AI development varies from simple software programs to complex decision-making systems. It's used in various industries like healthcare, finance, logistics, and even in smartphones and cars today.

AI systems build a mathematical model based on sample data, also known as "training data," to make predictions or decisions without being explicitly programmed to perform the task. There are two main types of AI: narrow AI, which is designed to perform a narrow task, and general AI, which can perform any intellectual task that a human being can.

A crucial area of AI research is machine learning, where computational systems use information and statistics to improve at tasks over time. Deep learning, a subset of machine learning, uses neural networks to mimic the human brain's functioning, adding more sophistication and capability to AI systems.

AI is considered advanced and, to some, unsettling as it can mimic human-like behavior, which raises ethical considerations around the use of this technology. Despite these concerns, proponents of AI anticipate beneficial outcomes such as improved productivity, medical advancements, and enhanced convenience in daily life.