How does Machine Learning work?
Machine Learning (ML) automatically recognises complex, previously unknown and useful information in all types of data. In the ML process, a model learns by looking for patterns hidden within given data. The more data there is, the more accurately the model resembles the real process. Additionally, by adjusting model parameters we can further improve its performance. Having an adequate model built, we can then generalise its application and make predictions about fresh data.
What are the different types of Machine Learning?
• Supervised Learning: This type of machine learning involves teaching an algorithm to make predictions based on data. Essentially, the algorithm is presented with a dataset that includes both input and output, and it learns to map the input data to the correct result. It is often used in image recognition and natural language processing.
• Unsupervised Learning: This algorithm is presented with data without labels to find patterns and structure within the data independently. This type of machine learning is helpful in anomaly detection.
• Reinforcement Learning: This type of machine learning involves training an algorithm to make decisions based on a reward system. The goal is to maximise the reward and minimise the punishment received by the algorithm. Reinforcement learning is used in game playing and robotics.
How to use Machine Learning in app development?
When it comes to app development, there are various ways to integrate machine learning solutions:
• Personalisation: With machine learning algorithms, you can create apps that personalise the user experience based on their behaviour, preferences, and interactions with the app. This can help improve user engagement and satisfaction.
• Predictive analytics: Machine learning can also be used to identify patterns in user behaviour and provide predictive analytics features that anticipate user needs and preferences. This can help increase app usage and loyalty.
• Image and speech recognition: By leveraging machine learning algorithms for image and speech recognition, you can create apps that enable users to interact with the app through voice or image-based interfaces. This can provide a more natural and intuitive user experience.
• Natural language processing: Machine learning can also be used to improve the natural language processing capabilities of the app. The app can provide more accurate and relevant responses by analysing and understanding user input.
• Fraud detection: With machine learning algorithms, you can develop apps that detect fraudulent activities in real-time, such as phishing or credit card fraud. This can help protect users’ data and prevent losses.
What technologies are used in Machine Learning?
When it comes to the technologies used in Machine Learning, a variety of tools and frameworks are available that help developers build and deploy ML models.
These include popular programming languages like Python and libraries or frameworks like TensorFlow or PyTorch.
In addition, cloud-based platforms like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google Cloud Platform (GCP), and Microsoft Azure provide powerful machine learning tools and services such as data storage, model training, and deployment.
Other technologies used in Machine Learning include data preprocessing tools like Apache Spark, which can help clean and prepare large datasets for ML models. Additionally, specialised hardware such as Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) and Tensor Processing Units (TPUs) can significantly speed up the training of deep learning models.
What are the limitations of Machine Learning?
Although ML can be applied almost everywhere, there are some limitations we have to be aware of. It requires a large amount of high-quality data to perform well and deliver reliable solutions. There is always some bias as we are working only on an available subset of the data that might not fully represent the modelled process. There is also an ethical dilemma with a responsibility for the outcome of ML-based decisions (e.g. a self-driving car accident). In some cases, a simple interpretability of modelling outcomes may not be possible.