With the multitude of online-connected devices in our lives (watches, phones, tablets, speakers, cars, alarm systems, etc.) collecting tons of customer data, there is tremendous opportunity to recognize recurring patterns autonomously to help users - - enter artificial intelligence. 

One week into January and 2018 is already being labeled as an upcoming breakout year for artificial intelligence.  The way we interface with the world around us moving from touch to voice and other biometrics will dramatically speed up.  Here are 6 (of 8) reasons why it will impact us so much this year at home / work:

> Virtual (smarter) assistant  - - Personal assistants will continue to evolve to the point of making decisions based on studying your routines, preferences and habits (e.g. favorite tacos on Tuesday are already ordered and waiting for your pickup on the way home);

> Intense battle of voice-based devices (think Alexa vs. Siri. vs. Google) - - it's already getting confusing for some of us (I said 'Alexa' to my Apple Watch!), and it'll will only build further in 2018 as some devices may get customized with the same command word, and be able to do the same things (i.e. turn on / off lights at home);

> Paying with Facial recognition (instead of credit cards) - - its on our phones now, and is coming to kiosks and stores with a physical and online presence, making it possible to purchase items on your phone at work and pick them up without taking out your wallet / ID (or interacting with another person!); 

> AI to curate media / news / reports to you specifically - -  research and analytics will be creating solutions to drive forward preferences on new music, news, and financial reporting catered to each user; 

> Your computer will just "get you" - - no more question and answer conversations with Alexa (or other voice devices), but longer, deeper dialogue that covers multiple things at once;  be prepared for suggestions / recommendations based on the conversation;

> AI in the doctor's office - - Healthcare systems are looking to adopt AI this year for diagnostics, but further applications are on the horizon for interfacing with customers and hospitals;