Computation Technology
A display model of Lightroom Model 9, an early photonic computer, at the Erbenez Foundation Museum on Revental.
Simulated Intelligence
Computers are a ubiquitous technology with infinite applications. A large part of civilization is augmented with simulated intelligences (SIs), which are machine-learned computers that handle complex tasks, react to rapidly changing conditions, and make informed decisions based on data. Throughout society, simulated intelligences handle but are not limited to:
Interstellar guidance
Orbital trajectories
Personalized education
Scientific analysis
Medical operations
Physical and mental health care
Logistics
Market reports
Societal streamlining
Weapon guidance
Security
The computational ability of these intelligences necessitates their use in all aspects of society, which simply could not function as it does without them as they have replaced humans in many roles. Though effective at forward planning and guidance, SIs are capable of social augmentation as well, able to read and understand human behavioral patterns to the benefit of both individuals and governing powers. Humans themselves implement and operate individual SIs where they can, incorporating them into neural interfaces and other personal devices to enhance overall computational ability.
An education-based SI
Artificial Intelligence
True artificial intelligence, that being a synthetically manufactured consciousness capable of self-improvement and unique ideas, has been theorized for centuries but not yet achieved. A simulated intelligence, versatile and smart as it may be, is still only capable of acting within the means of its overall programming. It isn’t clear at this time how one might surpass the “threshold” and become a technological singularity.