Computer systems that can perform tasks that typically require human intelligence to perform. These tasks can include answering simple yes/no questions (e.g., “Is this a picture of a cat?”) or more complex tasks (e.g., analyzing a loan applicant’s background and determining whether it will be safe and profitable to grant them a loan). As Kai-Fu Lee describes, modern scientists are making forays into developing AI that can “perceive” sensory data and even make autonomous decisions.

A hypothetical AI that can match or even surpass humans at any task. Lee considers AGI a work of science fiction; though he believes it may be developed some time in the future, he does not expect to see AGI in our lifetimes.

Extensive data sets which are collected for specific purposes, usually related to analyzing patterns and trends in human behavior. Lee writes that big data is essential to truly powerful AI.