In the second part of our series on artificial intelligence (AI), we look at some of the uses of AI and how it can help you navigate online and make browsing, shopping and other tasks faster.
What is AI used for?
Like many new things, AI might seem to have arrived without warning. It popped up on your computer and offered to help write emails or check the spelling of a note.
In some cases, you might relish the extra help. When writing that pesky Christmas letter, finding the latest trends on an illness, or making a repeat order on your favourite shopping site. AI can quickly research a subject and deliver the essential points on a single page. It can rephrase your writing to be more casual (or formal) and check your grammar. AI can even remind you that it’s time to reorder an item you regularly buy.
While it might seem concerning when a website asks to remember information like your name, address and credit card number, your details are safe if you log into the site with a secure password. Just make sure your password isn’t easy to guess. Your birth date, kids’ or pets’ names and past addresses are too easy to figure out.
Using AI to Your Benefit
AI Recognizes You Online and Makes Recommendations
If you allow AI to remember your name, address and other details on specific websites, you will receive recommendations on future choices:
- Online shopping sites will recommend items based on past purchases. Some are well-tuned to know your preferred styles, sizes and colours (e.g., Canadian Tire, Amazon, The Bay)
- Streaming services will recommend your favourite performers, genres or subject matter (e.g., Netflix, CBC Gem, Disney Plus, Spotify)
- Healthcare and other service providers will recognize your login and direct you to your usual provider, will know your insurance billing number and referring physician (physiotherapist, chiropractor, some family doctors’ offices)
You may ask, “Do I have to use AI?” The answer is “no, you don’t”. In most cases, it’s optional, and there are settings to turn it off. So, if you aren’t comfortable with the tool, click “no” when it offers help. You can also go into the settings of many applications and set your preferences for not using AI.
One example is in your web browser – you can navigate to your settings and select “Privacy” or “Autofill.” If you don’t want your browser to automatically fill in your user name, address, passwords and other listed details, you may turn that capability off.
Use AI When You are Comfortable
AI serves a purpose like all tools, but you must feel comfortable before using it. Beyond this post, you may wish to do a simple web search on basic AI uses. Have a look at your settings and see how you can tailor them to your comfort level.
Explore our website to learn more about BC CRN or connect with your local CRN for more information or resources.
