In July 2017, the Chinese State Council launched the "New Generation Artificial Intelligence Development Plan," elevating AI development to a national strategic priority. A few months later, in November of the same year, Shanghai introduced the "Implementation Opinions on the City's Development of a New Generation of Artificial Intelligence," launching the "Intelligent Shanghai (AI@SH)" initiative. This marked a significant shift, as the AI industry began to move at an accelerated pace, entering what many called the "fast track" of innovation.
Today, city leaders around the world are increasingly focusing on artificial intelligence, recognizing its potential to transform urban life and governance in the coming decades. From transportation and resource management to healthcare and elderly care, AI is reshaping how cities function and how people live.
As AI begins to "steer" urban systems, what will city life look like? Imagine a future where you no longer need a driver’s license to use autonomous transport services. In the fall of 2014, Stanford University initiated the "100-Year Artificial Intelligence Research" project, aiming to explore the long-term impact of AI on society. By 2016, a report titled "Artificial Intelligence and Life in 2030" was published, examining how AI could revolutionize everyday urban experiences, including transportation, public safety, environment, healthcare, education, and community engagement.
Transportation is seen as one of the first areas to undergo transformation. Experts predict that the shift from traditional to intelligent transportation systems may happen faster than expected. Within a few years, driverless cars might be common on city streets, allowing families to call for a ride and have it take them directly to their destination. Autonomous vehicles aren’t just for private use—self-driving buses, trains, and even ships are also expected to become part of daily life. The concept of "transportation as a service" is gaining traction, changing how people travel and how goods are delivered.
Drones and autonomous delivery vans will play a key role in logistics, while fleets of unmanned trucks will optimize routes and reduce fuel consumption. U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx once imagined a future where his daughter wouldn't need a driver's license by 2021, as AI-driven services would meet her transportation needs.
Regulators face the challenge of integrating autonomous technology into existing urban systems. The U.S. Department of Transportation has taken steps to support this transition with policies that encourage innovation, remove barriers, and promote collaboration between government and industry. These efforts aim to create a unified regulatory framework that supports safe and efficient deployment of AI in transportation.
Experts believe that AI can enhance urban mobility by offering more choices and safer options. For instance, individuals can choose alternative travel methods or opt for the safest route using AI-powered predictions. These systems analyze traffic patterns, congestion levels, and other factors to help city managers prepare for peak times and manage traffic flow efficiently.
This shift could turn commuting into a more enjoyable experience, reducing the stress of traffic jams and encouraging people to live farther from work while still maintaining productivity. It could also reduce the need for parking spaces, transforming the urban landscape over time.
Beyond transportation, AI is also making waves in smart buildings. Sensors and AI-driven systems can optimize energy use, improve security, and enhance convenience. For example, smart thermostats can adjust temperatures based on occupancy, saving energy. Elevator systems can be upgraded to better serve building occupants, improving efficiency and user experience.
IBM’s Smarter Planet initiative is another example of how AI is being used to make cities more sustainable. In Dubuque, Iowa, IBM partnered with local authorities to implement smart water and energy systems. Digital water meters helped residents save 7% on water usage, equivalent to 65 million gallons annually in a city of 60,000 people.
In healthcare, AI is already making a difference. Systems like IBM’s Watson are helping doctors diagnose cancer faster by analyzing genetic data and recommending treatment options. Radiologists, for example, can benefit from AI’s ability to process large volumes of visual data quickly, improving diagnostic accuracy and efficiency.
With an aging population, the demand for elderly care robots is growing. While robots may not yet handle complex tasks like injections or manicures, they offer 24/7 assistance, helping seniors maintain independence and quality of life. Many elderly individuals prefer interacting with robots over human caregivers, as it preserves their dignity and reduces social isolation.
As AI continues to evolve, its impact on cities and daily life will only grow. From smarter transportation and energy systems to better healthcare and elder care, the future looks promising—and very connected.
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