AI-FRONTIERApril 21, 20261 min read8 views

10 Things That Matter in AI Right Now

A curated look at the big ideas, trends, and advances in AI that are driving progress and shaping the future of technology.

10 things that

matter in AI

What is really worth your attention in the busy, buzzy world of AI? Our reporters and editors have spent years thinking about this question, charting AI’s progress and mapping out what’s next. Now, for the first time, we’ve distilled our answers into a single list.

Inspired by our annual list of 10 Breakthrough Technologies, here’s a brand new look at the big ideas, trends, and new advances in AI that are driving progress or shifting power dynamics today—and will shape what’s possible tomorrow.

Humanoid data

Just as our words became training data for large language models, videos of our movements are now being collected en masse to train humanoid robots. From sprawling “training centers” where workers repetitively complete tasks to tele-operated bots “puppeted” by strangers overseas, it’s a bizarre effort with no guarantee of success.

10 things that matter in AI right now

Credits

Editorial

Lead editors: Niall Firth, Amy Nordrum

Editing: Rachel Courtland, Niall Firth, Mary Beth Griggs, Charlotte Jee, Amy Nordrum, Amanda Silverman

Copy editing: Sarabeth Fields, Linda Lowenthal, Sara Shay

Managing editor: Teresa Elsey

Engagement: Abby Ivory-Ganja

Fact checking: Ena Alvarado, Anna Pujol-Mazzini, Clare Watson

Art

Art direction: Stephanie Arnett

Illustration: Stephanie Arnett, Max-o-matic

Technology

Lead developer: Andre Vitorio

Design: Vichhika Tep

Product management & analytics: Allison Chase

Creative direction & product strategy: Mariya Sitnova

CTO: Drake Martinet

Source: MIT Technology Review AI

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