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An intro to Generative AI: Definitions & applications

Over a year has passed since ChatGPT was released, and a global Generative AI hype commenced.

Suddenly, terms like GPT, LLM, tokens, and hallucinations are everywhere, as if we're all supposed to be tech experts?!

If you're feeling a bit lost in all the tech talk, you're not alone. We're here to break down Generative AI in a way that's easy to digest and understand.

Let's start with the basics and gradually explore how it's used and why it's so impactful.

First things first, What is generative AI?

Simply put, Generative AI is a type of AI that can be used to, well, generate new content.

It may sound basic, but that is the core of it. 🤷‍♂️

This "new content" can be anything from text to images, videos (have you seen those jaw-dropping clips by OpenAI's Sora?), or even speech.

How does generative AI work?

The magic of Generative AI models lies in that they're trained on lots and lots of data.

The biggest GenAI models are practically trained on all data available on the entire internet (!).

Yes, you read that right – they're trained on everything from Wikipedia articles to obscure blog posts, absorbing every conceivable piece of information available online.

The models then use deep learning (a subset of machine learning) to process and learn from the data, similar to how humans learn from experience.

It's like if you could read every book in the world and also remember:

Every.
Single.
Detail.

So when you ask a GenAI model to generate something (i.e., 'prompt' it), it'll dig through its giant bank of knowledge and create what it predicts you want using its experience—kind of making a highly informed guess.

How can GenAI be used?

While many enjoy using Generative AI for personal tasks, like polishing emails, creating funny images, or sprucing up their CVs, its impact on the business world is becoming increasingly significant.

Here are a few use cases:

Personalized customer experiences

Businesses thrive on understanding customer needs. Generative AI can sift through vast amounts of customer data, helping companies tailor their offerings, advertisements, and experiences, deepening engagement and loyalty.

Customer service chatbots

Virtual assistants and chatbots, powered by Generative AI, can autonomously handle customer queries and provide support, enhancing customer service and streamlining operations.

Boosting Operational Efficiency

From automating routine reports to optimizing supply chains and detecting anomalies, Generative AI can significantly reduce time and costs, boosting overall efficiency.

Fraud Detection and Cybersecurity

By analyzing patterns and detecting anomalies, Generative AI plays a crucial role in identifying fraud, enhancing security systems, and mitigating risks.

Next week ⏭️

GPTs and LLMs - what's the difference?

About Ebbot 🤖

Ebbot is a platform for service automation at scale with generative AI — fast, easy and secure.

In the Ebbot platform, you can easily create chatbots that use generative AI to generate answers based on the client's data, powered by our in-house LLM EbbotGPT, which is fine-tuned for service. Integrate the chatbot with the clients other systems to fully automate complex tasks without human involvement. When required human agents can step in to live-chat and collaborate seamlessly with the chatbot for an excellent customer experience that leaves no customer unserved.

Today Ebbot is used by 200+ companies to create excellent service experiences, both externally to serve customers and internally to support employees.

Matilda Elfman
April 18, 2024