DeepMind Technologies Limited was founded in London in 2010, and acquired by Google for $500 million in 2014. The company is now a part of the Alphabet group, and continues to work towards creating artificial intelligence that can effectively accomplish any task it is given. 
Researchers initially began training the system using an arcade gaming platform from the 1970s. While the computer was playing video games, scientists observed that it learnt in a similar way to humans. The main goal of DeepMind Technologies is to ‘solve intelligence,’ using AI to delve deeper into the intricacies of the human mind.
As artificial intelligence advances, it will be able to solve any problem without being given detailed instructions. This will accommodate breakthroughs in many areas which have proven difficult for scientists to understand. DeepMind has already made advancements in several fields, including healthcare and conserving the environment. Artificial intelligence has been used to decrease the amount of energy consumption in Google’s data centers, creating algorithms to make its cooling centers more efficient. Many people suffer from poor health and DeepMind is working with the healthcare system to provide better care for a number of conditions that affect millions of people worldwide.
The company combines an approach of long term discipline, with an enthusiastic team that is determined to make a difference. The team has published more than 200 peer reviewed papers, including in Nature and Science, detailing the work they are doing and the advancements that have been made. The company works closely with academic and research communities, aiming to maintain a high standard of commitment, while including the broader society. DeepMind operates on the premise that artificial intelligence is ultimately for the people, and makes every effort for their work to reflect this.
The firm also focuses on creating an ethical environment for their artificial intelligence, especially as advancements occur. Google has set up an AI ethics board, in accordance with their acquisition terms, but the members remain confidential. Despite the fears associated with creating computers more intelligent than mankind, Google maintains that their artificial intelligence will be for the benefit of humans. If the technology is focused in the right direction, artificial intelligence will facilitate extreme growth instead of becoming a threat. The technology’s creators have begun with basic necessities, showing where AI can help towards providing those in extreme poverty with food and water. This would result in growth and development worldwide, in addition to the advanced technological societies that are currently thriving.
DAVID VISSERS 