What Is the Difference Between Deep Learning and Machine Learning?

Deep learning is a subset of machine learning (ML), which is, in turn, a subset of artificial intelligence (AI). ML employs algorithms that parse data, learn from it, then use the new information to make informed decisions, similar to human thinking. ML enables a wide range of automated tasks, from queuing up the next song on a streaming music service to recommending a new product for a customer to buy.

Deep learning has additional abilities compared to basic ML algorithms. It automatically learns representations from data, such as images, video, or text, without introducing hand-coded rules or human domain knowledge. For example, to detect oranges on a production line using machine learning, you would include instructions such as, “oranges are round” and “oranges are orange” to help the machine to learn. Deep learning needs no such instructions; it can work out the characteristics for itself.