New technology such as AI has been trained to understand human sensory experiences such as flavours, shaping the way we experience the world.
Generative AI, has begun to mimic an intriguing aspect of human perception, the blending of sensory experiences. Research shows that humans naturally associate colours, shapes, and even sounds with flavours a phenomenon known as cross-modal correspondence. For instance, red hues often evoke sweetness, while sharp shapes suggest bitterness. AI systems, trained on human data, appear to be trained to replicate these associations, offering new perspectives on how deeply such connections are embedded in our perception.
This revelation emerged through studies where AI was tasked with answering prompts about the relationships between sensory elements, such as the sweetness of certain shapes or colours. The results closely mirrored human responses, particularly when using advanced models like ChatGPT-4. Researchers believe this reflects the biases in the data the AI was trained on, highlighting how common and universal these sensory links might be.
The potential applications of this technology are vast. Marketing, for example, could use AI to design products and packaging that enhance sensory appeal. However, experts warn that AI’s insights should complement, not replace, human creativity. While AI offers inspiration, the nuances of human perception remain essential for creating designs that resonate deeply with people.
By understanding how AI interprets sensory input, researchers hope to not only enhance technology but also unlock more about the mysteries of the human brain. As AI continues to explore the sensory dimensions, it might pave the way for innovative approaches to art, marketing, and even neuroscience.
