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'AI impact for everyone' is the theme for the summer projects undertaken by students from Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê's Computer Science MSc and Software Systems Engineering MSc. 20 teams took to the stage at the IBM Innovation Studio to present to their peers and industry leaders at the mid-point of their projects. It was an opportunity to assess their progress, brainstorm the next steps, and refine their presentation skills.

The summer projects are part of the Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê Industry Exchange Programme (Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê IXN). Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê IXN invites students to invent proofs of concept to solve real world problems, while receiving mentoring from industry, including IBM, Intel, Microsoft, HP and NTT DATA.

The concepts were hugely varied, but all focused on how artificial intelligence can make a tangible, positive impact. Many ideas explored using Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) to optimise large language models (LLMs) to improve the accessibility and efficiency of AI tools. Topics ranged from reducing carbon emissions to gaining charity support, from augmented reality art to virtual pets for older people.

There were several applications for healthcare. One investigated how AI could save clinicians time on documentation. Another used AI for sight tests. Students worked on the latest version of the HoloRepository, software which generates 3D models of anatomical structures to improve diagnostics and medical teaching. The WakeUp System helps patients communicate with medical teams by blinking their eyes or through sound or cough patterns.

Education is another sector where AI has the potential to be transformative. The students devised proofs of concepts such as tools for learning computer science, and virtual agents to assist teachers in the classroom.

The technology behind MotionInput formed the foundation for some projects. The touchless software, developed for four years by over 300 students, is pioneering equitable computing. Students showed how body point navigation for people with limb difference and motor disabilities allows them to use their bodies as a computer mouse, keyboard and joypad. Superhero Sportsday showcased the possibilities for touchless gaming.

A high point of the day was a speech from Nicola Hodson, Chief Executive, IBM UK and Ireland. Nicola praised the projects, highlighting how the skills the students are learning in innovation thinking are highly sought after in the workplace.

Nicola went on to celebrate IBM and Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê's long-standing collaboration and the organisations' shared commitment to developing trusted technology that is responsible, ethical and fair. AI is enabling productivity and transformation on a scale not seen before in the tech industry. Nicola explained how, with their projects, the students are shaping technology as part of this movement.

John McNamara, IBM Master Inventor, who organised the event, said:Ìý"I am always energised by the leadership of Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê, particularly Prof Dean Mohamedally and Prof Graham Roberts, and the way they both teach and inspire their students to create new technologies for good. It's a genuine joy to have the opportunity to collaborate in building the technology of the future."