Understanding agentic AI: closing the gap between narrow and general intelligence

Understanding agentic AI: closing the gap between narrow and general intelligence

Learn how Agentic AI is bridging the gap between narrow and general intelligence and providing transformative solutions for healthcare, government and disaster relief. Discover why this next wave of AI could redefine the way we work, live and adapt to modern challenges.

As AI advances, all sectors are set for a significant transformation, led by the introduction of Agentic AI. Unlike current GenAI models, which rely on human input, Agentic AI can perceive, reason, act and learn independently. It works effectively without continuous human control. Similar to human experts working together, Agentic AI acts more independently and delegates tasks among different agents – something GenAI cannot do alone.

Tip: Our in-house software Zinshunter is a great example of an innovative application of AI. Find out more.

What is Agentic AI?

Agentic AI refers to a type of artificial intelligence that is able to act autonomously to achieve defined goals. It makes decisions and adapts without direct human supervision. Such systems were developed to perform tasks by perceiving the environment, analyzing optimal actions and implementing them. State-of-the-art machine learning techniques such as reinforcement learning, in which algorithms learn by trial and error, or neural networks that process complex patterns similar to the human brain are used for this purpose.

In comparison, Narrow AI is limited to certain areas of application, such as virtual assistants like Siri and Alexa. These work within fixed parameters and cannot adapt beyond their programming. General AI, on the other hand, remains a hypothetical concept that, if ever realized, could fully mimic human thinking and learning.

Agentic AI lies between these two extremes. It can learn within a certain area, adapt and make decisions autonomously in order to achieve a goal. Example: An agent-based AI for traffic management analyzes real-time data, learns from traffic patterns and proactively adjusts traffic lights to avoid congestion. The difference could be enormous.

Areas of application in the government

Agentic AI offers far more potential than just the simplification of administrative tasks. In congested cities, such systems can monitor traffic flow around the clock, adjust traffic lights and public transport timetables and thus make commuting easier. This leads to less stress, reduced fuel consumption and more sustainable mobility.

In healthcare, especially in underserved regions, Agentic AI could be a real game changer. In a small clinic, an AI could take over assistance tasks, manage patient records, schedule appointments and provide round-the-clock support with medication or health issues. This would allow medical professionals to focus their attention on more critical cases.

Agentic AI also shows its potential in national security. Government systems are constantly exposed to cyberattacks. Agentic AI relentlessly monitors networks for unusual patterns and reacts in real time to minimize risks. Its ability to independently analyze large amounts of data offers a decisive advantage in protecting sensitive information.

Agentic AI is also proving to be indispensable in environmental monitoring and disaster relief. In the event of flooding or forest fires, it can predict the course of the disaster, manage evacuation processes and direct resources to where they are most urgently needed. This proactive approach can save lives and minimize the impact on affected communities.

Shaping the future with Agentic AI

The question is no longer what Agentic AI can do for us, but how we can use and shape this technology in our collective interest. Agentic AI can accelerate positive change and usher in an era of progress that benefits all members of society – through targeted action and collective engagement.