Types of artificial intelligence The following article provides an overview of the most important types of artificial intelligence. The main purpose of artificial intelligence is to allow machines to function like humans. Thus, the primary means of classifying AI is based on its ability to reproduce human functions. AI can be broadly classified into two types, both based on its ability to reproduce the human brain. A type of classification that is "functional" classifies AI according to its resemblance to the human brain and its ability to think and feel like humans. The second most prevalent style in the technology industry is the AI-based "capabilities" of human intelligence.