Artificial Intelligence in Second Life

Recently, I met someone in Second Life that sparked my curiosities. He was conducting a social experiment using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and virtual avatars in Second Life. I thought that was very interesting and unique, so I started researching a little about AI myself. Because of the computing power available within the Cloud nowadays, AI is becoming increasingly common in all types of products and technologies. Second Life can advance AI research without forcing researchers to solve the most difficult problem like, say, creating a virtual human.  Avatars powered by AI could feature a mix of automated behaviors and learning and problem-solving capabilities.

Researching AI in Second Life has become increasingly popular the past few years. We already have some virtual AI in SL called controlled "bots" However, AI is only as good as the data that drives it. Can a computer program fool someone into thinking they're interacting with another REAL person? A few years ago a resident named "Hal Cybertar" controlled by AI explored many regions in Second Life on his own. He sought out groups of people and tried to make friends by introducing himself and joining in on conversations.

Giving an AI the ability to roam a place like Second Life seems like a great way for it collect data, learn and grow, and maybe eventually to self evolve to some level. I am excited to see where new research into AI may take us.