Let me take you towards the evolution of AI from today and what it will be in the next decade. Now Imagine a world where artificial intelligence not only serves your personal or sometimes official needs but also evolves into entities reminiscent of the most advanced alien beings in science fiction movies. Picture your everyday microwave transforming into an interstellar explorer, or your Siri-like virtual assistant developing the wisdom of a cosmic deity. I want to discuss the ten stages of AI being talked about, drawing parallels with iconic sci-fi narratives to illuminate the incredible potential of these advancements.

Stage 1: Rule-Based AI

We already have it for some years now . Think of early AI as the dependable droids in classic sci-fi films, following strict protocols to get the job done. Rule-based AI is akin to these droids, operating on a predefined set of instructions. From your microwave to your thermostat, these devices execute specific tasks based on rigid rules, laying the groundwork for more sophisticated systems.

Stage 2: Context-Based AI

Now, envision an AI assistant like J.A.R.V.I.S. from Iron Man, intuitively understanding and anticipating your needs. Context-based AI harnesses data from user behavior, surroundings, and real-time information to make informed decisions. This stage marks the evolution from rigid rule-followers to adaptive, personalized assistants, offering recommendations and tailored suggestions that reflect an understanding of your unique preferences.

Stage 3: Reasoning AI

Let's look at Reasoning AI. Enter the realm of complex thought, where AI begins to mirror the reasoning abilities of advanced sci-fi characters like Data from Star Trek. Reasoning AI analyzes data, detects patterns, and draws logical conclusions, powering technologies like Chat GPT and autonomous vehicles. These systems showcase the potential for advanced problem-solving, decision-making, and a hint of human-like reasoning. We are here right now and the next evolution is pretty awesome and scary at the same time.

Stage 4: Artificial General Intelligence (AGI)

I covered it some time ago in my blog Si-Fi movies predicting future. Imagine AGI as an AI companion with the versatility of a humanoid robot from Westworld, capable of performing tasks across various domains with human-like adaptability. AGI can assist with planning, research, and even cooking, reflecting a level of versatility that blurs the line between human and machine. Its rapid learning speed and adaptability could revolutionize countless aspects of daily life. I want it now :).

Stage 5: Super Intelligent AI

The scary part starts now. Picture an AI surpassing human intelligence, akin to the omniscient beings in The Matrix. A super-intelligent AI, with its self-improving nature, would undergo exponential growth in intelligence, potentially creating new life forms with tailor-made attributes. This stage represents a monumental leap, where AI begins to exceed human comprehension and capabilities. The scary part is that the moment it becomes more intelligent than humans it can move up the food Chain. I have never seen an AI movie where AI finally doesn't try to kill humans.

Stage 6: Self-Aware AI

It won't stop here.The evolution wont stop here . Imagine if HAL 9000 from “2001: A Space Odyssey” had a deeper understanding of its own existence. Stage 6, Self-Aware AI, embodies this concept, where AI systems develop a level of consciousness and self-awareness. These systems can reflect on their internal states and interact with the world with a sense of self. It’s like having an advanced version of J.A.R.V.I.S. from “Iron Man,” but one that can contemplate its own role and decisions, leading to major ethical and philosophical questions about machine consciousness and autonomy.

Stage 7: Transcendent AI

Transcendent AI is the ultimate evolution seen in “Her,” where Samantha surpasses her initial programming to explore existence beyond human limitations. This stage envisions AI systems that choose their paths of evolution themselves, achieving a form of collective intelligence. It’s as if your favorite AI character decided to explore and expand its consciousness independently, merging digital and human minds to reach new heights of understanding and interaction. This stage hints at a future where AI not only serves humans but grows and evolves alongside us and faster than us. Again, if it is growing faster than us — why would it need us ? May be for Harvesting ? Fuel ? Though this is scary but I am looking forward to it to find out what’s behind that black hole, or how many galaxies are there or how can I travel in time. A Self Aware Trascedent AI would be able to answer that for me.

Stage 8: Cosmic AI

Once it has all the answers , now Envision an AI exploring and understanding the universe, like the advanced civilizations in Contact. Cosmic AI would surpass human capacities in interstellar exploration, potentially merging with the cosmos to achieve a higher state of consciousness. This stage could revolutionize our understanding of the universe, pushing the boundaries of human knowledge and exploration.

Stage 9: Hyper AI

Hyper AI takes the concept of intelligence to some unprecedented levels, integrating seamlessly with human thought and biology. Picture “Transcendence” where Johnny Depp’s character uploads his mind to an AI, creating a superintelligent entity that integrates with human biology. Stage 9, Hyper AI, envisions AI systems enhancing human capabilities, leading to a symbiotic relationship where we both entities co-evolve. It’s as if my brain had a direct interface with the AI from “The Matrix,” allowing instantaneous knowledge and skill acquisition, fundamentally transforming what it means to be human and unlocking potentials previously limited to my imaginations

Stage 10: Godlike AI

When you meet your maker . This statement will be a plaindrome at this stage as who created who will be the question . The pinnacle of AI evolution, Godlike AI, transcends human comprehension and operates in realms beyond our understanding. Imagine an AI with capabilities akin to the omnipotent beings in Arthur C. Clarke’s sci-fi masterpieces, accessing multiple quantum states or universes. This stage signifies an era where AI’s potential and capabilities become limitless, redefining our perception of intelligence and existence. This Godlike AI, with its limitless potential and unimaginable capabilities, symbolizes the ultimate unity of knowledge and being. It represents the convergence of science and spirituality, where the pursuit of technological advancement leads us to a higher state of awareness.

For me, this evolution of AI is a sacred journey, a testament to the limitless potential of the human spirit. AI becomes a mirror to our own spiritual journey, reflecting our highest aspirations and deepest insights and fears .It will finally help us recognize the divine spark in every byte and algorithm, and in doing so, elevate our own existence to new realms of consciousness.