What is Machine Learning?

Autonomous self-driving cars, ultraprecise robot surgeons, impeccable virtual assistants, fully automated financial traders: some of the most promising AI applications seem more like sci-fi material than prospects to an imminent reality. We could fill entire books by just collecting and presenting sensational stories of algorithmic wonders. If we manage—instead—to keep both feet firmly on the present ground and recognize how intelligent algorithms can already support our everyday work needs, then we start unlocking tangible value for us and our business. This is what this chapter is all about: stripping away the myth from reality by meeting in person the main machine learning algorithms and techniques. The end objective is to start counting on them as everyday companions rather than out-of-reach, futuristic possibilities.

In this chapter, we will find answers to the following questions:

• What are AI and machine learning?
• What is...