An epic contest between man and machine ended in a draw yesterday when the reigning classical world chess champion Vladimir Kramnik drew four all with Deep Fritz, the German-built successor to IBM's famous chess-playing computer Deep Blue.
Although the tournament lacked some of the drama of the 1997 encounter between the then world champion Gary Kasparov and Deep Blue, Kramnik proved that the human mind can still hold its own against a machine capable of analysing 6 million moves per second.
Kasparov, who lost his battle against artificial intelligence in the 1997 match, is famous for declaring that 'chess is mental torture'. His successor in the hot seat showed every sign of suffering during the eighth and final game against Fritz yesterday.
Kramnik was observed walking back and forth, glancing at the clock and muttering to himself. He eventually offered a draw after 21 moves, making yesterday's the shortest game of the tournament.
'I am just exhausted,' he said after the finale. 'I didn't sleep so well last night and if you cannot catch the computer out at the opening of the game, you don't stand much of a chance.'
Yesterday's game was the last of an eight-match tournament which began on October 4. The prize was $1 million, but Kramnik had to content himself with $800,000 for achieving a draw, and Fritz's makers, ChessBase, collected the balance.
The Competition
The competition began well for the world champion. After drawing the first game he beat Fritz and its three programmers, Frans Morsh, Alex Kure and Mathias Feist, by winning the next two games, picking the program apart in simplified positions.
The fourth game was a draw, but after two rest days and a lot of coaching, Fritz returned to beat Kramnik in games five and six. Under pressure, the human master lost game six after resigning in a position which post-match analysis later showed he could have defended.
Games seven and eight were less hard-fought, with Kramnik more wary of taking the computer on. Despite having the advantage of opening the match, Kramnik conceded a draw after two hours.
Fritz's Strategy
For those who understand the rules of chess, Fritz blinked first by declining Kramnik's invitation to play one of the sharpest openings, the Botvinnik Semi-Slav, and instead opted for the more pedestrian opening of the Queen's Gambit Declined. Left without a clear course of action, Kramnik realized that it was only by taking extreme chances that he could play for a win, and he decided not to take the risk.
After the finale, Kramnik said he had found Fritz 'much stronger' than programs he had played a year ago. 'It is not just strong in terms of calculations, which is to be expected, but in terms of positional moves. It plays like a very strong human. These are 'human moves'.'
Frederic Friedel, one of the machine's creators, said: 'It was something we constantly asked ourselves if Fritz is better than the world champion. In a few years, I think it will be. Deep Fritz is tactically a monster and will always put you under pressure.'
The machine's success was partly due to its extensive opening book. It chose a different opening in every game. Kramnik admitted that this had caused him problems because he was unable to prepare for every possible beginning.
Man vs Machine: The Impact on Hotels
As advancements in artificial intelligence continue to push boundaries, the question arises: How will man versus machine impact the hospitality industry, particularly hotels?
The Rise of Automation in Hotels
In recent years, hotels have been embracing various automated systems and technologies to enhance guest experiences and streamline operations. From self-check-in kiosks to robotic concierges, automation has found its way into different aspects of hotel services.
Efficiency and Accuracy
One of the main advantages of automation in hotels is the increased efficiency and accuracy it offers. Machines can perform repetitive tasks with precision and consistency, eliminating human errors. This can lead to faster check-ins, quicker response times, and improved overall service quality.
Enhanced Guest Experiences
Automation in hotels also has the potential to enhance guest experiences. For example, smart room controls allow guests to personalize their environments, adjusting lighting, temperature, and entertainment systems to their preferences. Virtual assistants in hotel rooms can provide instant information and assistance, creating a seamless and convenient stay for guests.
The Human Touch
While automation can offer numerous benefits, it's important to strike a balance and maintain the human touch in the hotel industry. Personal interactions and genuine human connections are still valued by many guests. Hotel staff can provide personalized recommendations, empathetic customer service, and unique experiences that machines cannot replicate.
Adapting to Changing Demands
As technology continues to evolve, hotels must adapt to changing guest demands and preferences. This may involve integrating new technologies, training staff to work alongside machines, and continuously evaluating the impact of automation on guest satisfaction.
The Future of Man and Machine in Hotels
While man and machine may seem like competitors, there is potential for synergy in the hotel industry. By leveraging the strengths of both humans and machines, hotels can provide efficient, personalized, and memorable experiences for guests.