It feels like discussions of artificial intelligence (AI) are everywhere — especially following Apple's announcement of Apple Intelligence. The field of study aims to replicate human thinking through the use of machines, and local companies have found wicked smart ways to utilize the technology.

Massachusetts ranks as the No. 7 best state for AI jobs, so we wanted to take a look at six local companies using AI and the ingenious ways they're applying the tech.

PathAI — This company employs AI to diagnose and treat illnesses, especially cancer. Its biggest collaborators are biopharma companies, laboratories, and clinicians.
Shift Technology — In 2018, this business opened its Boston headquarters where it uses AI to detect fraud, particularly in the insurance industry.
Rapid7 — Located in the West End, this cybersecurity company uses decades of data to address cyber threats early so customers can respond faster.
DataRobot — Headquartered in downtown Boston, this company helps other businesses — ranging from healthcare to retail to manufacturing — by using AI to analyze data and build predictive machine learning models.
N1 Health — This healthcare company applies AI to create patient profiles and uses data to make individualized health predictions that lead to faster treatment and better outcomes.
Boston Dynamics — This Waltham-based robotics company uses AI so its robots can problem solve and autonomously navigate through their surroundings.

Spot by Boston Dynamics can do a lot more than fetch. | Photo via Saggittarius A on Wikimedia Commons

AI can't operate without humans (yet). If you're interested in learning more about the field, you can enroll in local courses and degree programs, including these options:

Harvard offers a variety of classes, including self-paced courses that are free to audit
Bunker Hill Community College offers self-guided, introductory courses
MIT offers a professional certificate in Machine Learning + Artificial Intelligence
If you're already experienced in computer science, Boston University offers a Master's of Science in Artificial Intelligence