What is Generative AI?

Generative AI (GenAI) refers to a type of artificial intelligence that can create new content, such as text, images, audio, video, and even code, by learning patterns from existing data. Unlike traditional AI systems that focus on recognizing patterns or making predictions, GenAI can generate original outputs that resemble human creativity.

At its core, Generative AI utilizes advanced models known as generative models, which are trained on massive datasets. These models learn the structure, grammar, and patterns of the input data and then utilize that understanding to generate new data that resembles and sounds similar.

Some examples of what GenAI can do:

• Write essays, poems, or emails

• Create digital artwork or realistic images

• Compose music or voiceovers

• Generate source code or scripts

• Simulate human-like conversations in chatbots

One of the most well-known types of Generative AI is the Large Language Model (LLM) — like ChatGPT — which can understand and generate human language. Other models, like DALL·E, generate images from text prompts.

Why is GenAI a Big Deal?

GenAI represents a major shift in how we interact with technology:

• It reduces the barrier to creativity and productivity

• It amplifies human capabilities, not just automates routine tasks

• It can be used across industries — from marketing to medicine

But with great power comes great responsibility. GenAI also introduces challenges around bias, accuracy, and ethical use, which are important to understand as we move forward.