From supermarket checkouts to online algorithms, artificial intelligence is fast becoming part of our everyday lives.

Having completed a Bachelor of Science in Physics and a Diploma of Languages in Latin at the University of Melbourne, Andrew Lim is now working at the University’s Centre for AI and Digital Ethics, focusing on the legal side of AI policy. “I’m looking at how the legal profession is adopting generative AI, how courts and judicial officers are approaching it, and how we might regulate it,” he says.

Andrew emphasises that there is a difference between generative AI, which includes tools like chatbots and image generators, and the AI that is already familiar to us. “Whether it’s facial recognition technology keeping an eye on you at Coles, your Netflix algorithm, or even road safety cameras watching for mobile phone use, non-generative AI is already everywhere,” says Andrew.

UC Berkeley graduate Larry Pang also sees AI as a tool that can be used to make low-level tasks easier. “My advice is to be open-minded and experiment with AI software that fits your specific needs,” he says. “Think of yourself as an ‘AI agent manager,’ and this will make it easier to discover what works for you.”

Larry adds that as a software engineer, AI already plays a big role in making his work life more efficient. “It’s exceptional at generating boilerplate code, which allows me to focus on higher-level architecture rather than small functional details,” he explains. “I also use AI to refine emails and Slack messages, particularly when I’m communicating with senior colleagues.”

Now based in London, Sam Holston was first exposed to AI while working in HR and education technology start-ups. There, he became increasingly interested in how AI could be applied to student learning.

“When I’m learning something new, I often use AI to help me understand the foundations and source materials,” Sam adds. “Looking at it as a tool that can help you build skills and ideas makes it something that can benefit you, rather than replace you.”

Looking towards the future, Sam says he expects AI to become less visible and more integrated into the products we use every day: “Instead of the obvious chatbots we see now, I think we’ll see more AI embedded into our watches, phones and other devices, helping us when we need them. This could be hugely helpful-think preventative personal medicine flagging when you need to see a doctor—or incredibly dystopian. I’m equal parts excited and terrified!”