Artificial intelligence now writes emails, reads medical scans, and suggests what to buy next. Many researchers believe it could keep improving until it surpasses human ability in nearly every area. That idea is called artificial superintelligence, or ASI.
Right now, it exists only as a theory, and experts disagree on whether it will occur, when it would happen, and what it would look like. Some see a tool that could cure diseases and ease shortages. Others see a risk that people may not be able to control.
In this gallery, we understand how artificial superintelligence might be developed, the benefits it could unlock, and the serious risks it presents to human society. Read on to learn more.