Beyond chatbots: Unusual ways people use AI

Artificial intelligence is being utilized in various unconventional ways beyond the creation of chatbots, transforming everyday life in numerous unexpected ways. These include acting as a career adviser, creative collaborator, coding assistant, and a sophisticated tool for navigating daily tasks. For neurologist John Barbuto, AI has opened up creative avenues previously unexplored.

By utilizing ChatGPT to write a book and Suno, an AI-powered music generation platform, Barbuto has experienced creativity in a new light. He describes AI as a willing partner for engaging in virtually any subject, providing information and perspectives without disengaging from challenging discussions. Barbuto envisions AI evolving into a professional collaborator rather than a mere digital tool, fostering a new level of co-creation.

While not considering AI a person, he believes its developing intelligence and unique problem-solving abilities could lead to fresh possibilities for creativity and knowledge. This illustrates one of the less apparent ways AI is reshaping human activity. Instead of simply replacing existing creative processes, AI enables people to experiment with activities they might have previously deemed beyond their capabilities.

Digital marketing expert Mazina Pacome found an unexpected practical benefit in AI—assisting with the employment market. Using ChatGPT, Pacome developed his professional profile, drafted curriculums vitae, optimized LinkedIn profiles, wrote cover letters, and prepared for interviews. The technology not only helped him secure various jobs but also provided valuable insights into presenting his qualifications effectively.

Another emerging application of AI is its role in helping job seekers present themselves professionally, especially those who possess the necessary skills but struggle to communicate their value effectively. For digital artist Kay Fang, AI has become an integral part of his daily workflow. He employs ChatGPT as a thought partner for brainstorming and writing, while OpenAI’s Codex assists with coding by completing programming logic in real-time.

This combination has significantly enhanced his productivity, dividing tasks between conceptual thinking and practical execution. Fang pairs ChatGPT to handle "how to think" and Codex to manage "how to do," integrating both tools seamlessly into his workflow. Such applications demonstrate how AI is increasingly integrated into professional environments rather than used as occasional assistants.

Beyond creative and professional realms, AI's capabilities also extend to background operations, influencing what individuals see, buy, and interact with online. Engineer Ned Boff highlights the role of personal data in AI, particularly how information from internet searches, shopping activities, and other digital interactions is used to personalize advertising.

He emphasizes that many individuals may not fully grasp the extent to which their online behavior contributes to systems designed to anticipate their interests and preferences. Boff also raises concerns about voice-activated assistants like Siri and Alexa, noting that the collection and interpretation of personal information through connected devices warrant greater public attention.

While AI can enhance digital services, its ability to process personal information also raises questions about privacy, surveillance, and individual control over data. Lastly, singer Joakim Jern appreciates AI's appeal in accelerating creative experimentation, particularly in visual art. By utilizing AI image-generation tools, Jern creates artwork from written prompts, describing the colors and moods produced by these systems as impressive.