Kevin Okell: Smarter than we look

AI still has major limitations

clock • 3 min read

Robots will no doubt learn at a faster rate than natural selection managed but, writes Kevin Okell, whether they can compress the timescales of human evolution enough to worry today's financial advisers seems doubtful

If you watch ‘Have I Got News For You' or were keeping an eye on the news in April, you may recall a story about a robot that can build an IKEA chair in 20 minutes. Impressive as that sounds, the punchline was that a human could do it in 10 minutes. A follow-up story in The Economist examined the limits of artificial intelligence (AI) more broadly. The fact that physical dexterity is computationally more demanding than mental tasks has been known for some time - it even has a name: Moravec's paradox. The phenomenon explains why robots can beat the world's best chess and go players but...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Technology

Carlyle emerges as buyer in Intelliflo takeover deal – report

Carlyle emerges as buyer in Intelliflo takeover deal – report

Private equity group Carlyle secures ownership of Intelliflo

Sahar Nazir
clock 20 August 2025 • 3 min read
As advisers are zigging to AI, how do you zag?

As advisers are zigging to AI, how do you zag?

'Be visible. Be local. Be helpful before you’re needed'

Harry Webster
clock 14 August 2025 • 4 min read
AI in financial services: Hype, hope, or a bit of both?

AI in financial services: Hype, hope, or a bit of both?

'It's important to maintain a healthy dose of scepticism and here's why...'

Doug Boyce
clock 06 August 2025 • 4 min read