Smart AI

"Smart" AI is the colloquial term in the UNSC for AIs which have no limitations in their dynamic memory-processor matrix.

Background
The first "smart" AI was developed in the mid 21st century. At first there was great concern that this new technology would become too capable and render human intelligence obselete. The ability for vocal expressions was added as it made them less threatening, conversing on the same level as their masters. Over time, such AIs became more advanced.

Intelligence
Due to their uninhibited matrix design, "smart" AIs proved capable of intellectual development. This was manifested in that they could both learn from and adapt to situations and events. Conversely, their opposites, the so-called "dumb" AIs, which while experts in their programmed fields could not. If the A.I. has high standards of itself, and these feelings continue, this is called rampancy, and the A.I.'s files must be deleted before other "Smart A.I.'s" have a chance to become ramped as well.

Lifespan
Another feature which stemmed from their unusual nature was a limited lifespan. After a period of or about seven years, "smart" AIs begin to process such an overload of data that function under normal parameters is no longer possible. This excess, known as AI Rampancy, leads to all operational functions being subordinated to their thought process which, in the end, proves terminal.

An apt analogy to this would be a human brain devoting so much of its work towards thought that to allow for this neural signals to vital organs cease. In this way the AIs quite literally 'think' themselves to death. This trait was able to be forestalled in later generations of "smart" AI such as Deep Winter.

Known "Smart" AIs

 * Cortana, 3rd Generation
 * Melissa, ONI mission specialist
 * Eternal Spring
 * Endless Summer
 * Deep Winter, 5th Generation
 * Araquiel 3rd Generation
 * Kalmiya, assumed 2nd Generation
 * Sif
 * Mack

Trivia

 * Smart AI's lifespans are about seven years long, until they "think themselves to death" by entering the stages of Rampancy.