Artificial intelligence has come a long way since its inception, but it still has a long way to go before it can truly emulate human intelligence. However, recent advances in nanotechnology have paved the way for the development of artificial intelligence systems capable of learning and remembering in ways previously thought to be unique to the human brain. Memories are stored in the brain as patterns of activity of these neural networks. When a memory is formed, some neurons are activated and the connections between them are strengthened.
When memory is recalled, the same neurons become active again, restoring the same neural activity pattern. The brain also has the ability to consolidate memories over time, strengthen connections between neurons, and make memories more resistant to degradation. The precise mechanisms of memory formation and recall are still poorly understood, but advances in neuroscience and artificial intelligence research are shedding new light on this complex process.
Researchers from the University of Sydney have discovered that nanowire networks have the ability to mimic high-level cognitive functions normally associated with the human brain. Formed into a network of high-conductivity silver wires coated with plastic and self-assembled into a dynamically complex network with memory and processing capabilities, the networks were able to learn and remember like a human brain in tests. By manipulating the voltages in the networks, the researchers increased the capacity and accuracy of their memory to the point where they could “remember” the last point seven steps ahead in the circuit, comparable to human memory.
This breakthrough could have a wide range of applications in artificial intelligence, from the development of autonomous vehicles to the creation of more advanced healthcare systems. However, it also raises important ethical questions about the future of AI and the role technology will play in our lives. As AI systems become more sophisticated, it is important to consider the potential risks and benefits of these technologies and ensure that they are developed in a responsible and ethical manner.