As our colleagues confirmed, artificial intelligence in embedded systems was among the key topics that have been discussed at Embedded World 2024. A lot of information is buzzing about AI and what it can do to help with any industry need, or wish. It is truly fascinating how AI is making a difference. With faster development of devices and autonomous systems, this technology teaches us about what could be possible. Thanks to its capacity to learn and operate autonomously businesses can adapt their devices to any need. Constant improvement is now possible. Smart sensors and self-learning algorithms are able to identify opportunities that weren’t considered before.

When it comes to AI in embedded systems, there are plenty of innovations. Some providers showcased their work at the event, offering a hands-on experience. One provider introduced a microcontroller that leverages AI models and software optimization rather than integrating NPUs (Neural Processing Units), to align with customer needs. The demand for AI acceleration drove other producers to optimize FPGAs to deliver high-performance solutions with low power consumption and smaller footprints.

Another interesting device showcased at Embedded World 2024 was an assistance system for bicycles. The e-bike of the future is already here – it has an ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) with three cameras that help people cycle safely. Users can monitor traffic behind them and, thanks to more advanced functionalities, are not allowed to use the bicycle when they aren’t wearing a helmet. We see that AI not only makes businesses more efficient, but also improves everyday lifestyle.

AI in embedded systems has been also showcased as a useful enablement of various software tools that are now more and more used to make software engineering more efficient when it comes to design and development – and to help verification and validation setup for both embedded and non-embedded systems to operate better.