In the field of artificial intelligence, we made a quantum leap a few days ago. With the presentation of Google’s revised virtual assistant it becomes clear that the technology can hardly be stopped and that it will become more and more useful for our everyday life. Chatbots, language assistants and virtual butlers will fundamentally shape our everyday life in a few years.
Google Duplex Demo from Google IO 2018 (Source: Ben Thompson)
AI is already processing huge amounts of data within seconds and can hardly be beaten in image recognition, for example. The chatbots, also often equipped with artificial intelligence, supplement image processing with very precise speech recognition using machine learning. The more we talk to the bot, the better it gets.
From the point of view of futurology, this is only the beginning on the road to superintelligence as we only know it from science fiction so far. But until then, the current systems must be used optimally. Chatbots allow us to handle a wide variety of processes through them. From the pure generation of information to the booking of tickets or the purchase of clothing. But is it really safe to order via a chatbot and give him bank details and other financial sovereignty? If the development continues, as demonstrated by Google, then the complete booking processes will be digitized and automated. This requires a transaction solution that creates trust. One solution to this problem lies in blockchain technology.
Blockchain as a chance for chatbots
Blockchain systems enable a transparent, tamper-proof solution that reliably documents processes and protects them from external attacks by various security mechanisms. This writes consistent data records that are necessary for the future of AI applications.
The blockchain documents important interaction points of the bot, from the duration of the transaction to the number of users and the various customer interactions. Everything is comprehensible for the user and can contribute at a later point in time to the decision whether one wants to use a bot system or nevertheless the classical way chooses. When you think back to the demonstration of Google Duplex, the possibilities of automated scheduled bookings are conceivable.
According to the blog of indorse, the consulting company Deloitte is even setting up its own bot/blockchain system with which they want to optimize their customer service.
Consider the serious risks that grow with the increasing popularity of chat bots. Humans are essentially social beings, so interaction with friendly and man-made computer programs increases the risk of phishing. The lack of mutual understanding and frequent cases of unscrupulous chatbots can cause distrust of the technology and refusal to use it at all.
The combination of the two technologies makes it possible to make processes even more transparent, decentralized and efficient. Of course, as always when it comes to innovation, the right application must also be shown here. Every innovation follows the goal of making life easier for users, customers or employees. If this is possible by combining different technologies, then this strategy should definitely be gone. Companies must therefore look closely at their goals, the processes involved and how these can be optimally expanded!
