Artificial intelligence (AI) has been a hot topic in recent years, with advancements in technology and machine learning allowing for unprecedented capabilities. From self-driving cars to virtual assistants, we are constantly seeing new and innovative ways in which AI is being utilized. However, there are also several surprising applications of AI that many people may not be aware of. In this blog post, we will explore some of these unexpected uses of AI and how they are shaping our world.
1. AI in Agriculture
When we think of AI, we often associate it with high-tech industries such as finance or healthcare. However, AI is also being used in the agriculture sector to improve crop production and efficiency. Companies like Blue River Technology are using AI-powered robots to identify and remove weeds, reducing the need for harmful pesticides and increasing crop yields. Other AI applications in agriculture include predicting weather patterns, analyzing soil data, and monitoring livestock health.
Current Event: In June 2021, the USDA announced a $5 million investment in AI research to improve sustainable agricultural practices. This funding will support projects such as developing AI-powered tools for precision agriculture and creating predictive models for crop yields. (Source: https://www.usda.gov/media/press-releases/2021/06/30/usda-announces-5-million-funding-advance-ai-research-agriculture)
2. AI in Wildlife Conservation
Conserving and protecting wildlife is a complex and challenging task, but AI is making it easier. AI-powered drones are being used to track animal movements and monitor poaching activities in protected areas. In South Africa, AI is being used to recognize the unique patterns of each individual rhino, making it easier to track and protect them from poachers. AI is also being used to analyze and identify illegal wildlife trade activities on social media, helping to catch and prosecute offenders.
3. AI in Fashion
The fashion industry is constantly evolving, and AI is playing a significant role in its transformation. AI-powered algorithms can analyze customer data and predict fashion trends, helping companies to design and produce clothing that will sell. Companies like Stitch Fix and Stitch Fix are using AI to personalize recommendations for their customers, making shopping more convenient and efficient. AI is also being used in fashion design, with the world’s first AI-designed dress being sold for over $9,000.

Surprising Applications of AI You Never Knew Existed
4. AI in Music
Music is a form of art that has been around for centuries, but AI is now taking a front seat in the industry. AI-powered music composition tools are allowing artists to create unique and innovative pieces of music. AI is also being used to analyze music data and predict which songs will be successful, helping record labels and streaming platforms to make data-driven decisions. In fact, AI has already produced a hit song in 2019, “Daddy’s Car,” which was composed by an AI algorithm trained on The Beatles’ music.
5. AI in Mental Health
The stigma surrounding mental health has led to a lack of resources and access to care for many individuals. However, AI is changing this by providing accessible and personalized mental health support. Chatbots powered by AI are being used to provide therapy and support to individuals in need. These chatbots can analyze a person’s language and emotions to provide appropriate responses and resources. AI is also being used to analyze social media posts and identify individuals who may be at risk of mental health issues.
6. AI in Emergency Services
During emergencies, every second counts, and AI is helping emergency services respond faster and more efficiently. AI-powered drones can quickly assess disaster areas and identify individuals in need of help. In addition, AI is being used to analyze data from emergency calls to predict the severity of incidents and allocate resources accordingly. This helps emergency responders to arrive at the scene faster and with the necessary resources to handle the situation.
7. AI in Space Exploration
The exploration of space has always been a dream for humanity, and AI is bringing us closer to achieving it. AI is being used in space missions to analyze vast amounts of data and make predictions about the environment of other planets. In addition, AI is being used to control spacecraft and make autonomous decisions, reducing the need for human intervention. This allows us to explore further and deeper into space than ever before.
In conclusion, AI is being used in various industries and fields, and its applications are constantly expanding. From agriculture and wildlife conservation to fashion and mental health, AI is revolutionizing the way we live and work. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more surprising and innovative uses of AI in the future.
Summary:
Artificial intelligence (AI) is being used in various fields and industries, and its applications are constantly expanding. Some surprising uses of AI include its role in agriculture, wildlife conservation, fashion, music, mental health, emergency services, and space exploration. AI is revolutionizing the way we live and work, and as technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more unexpected uses of AI in the future.