AI at 91直播 - a Digital Futures initiative
It began here – with Turing’s seminal paper on AI. Now, we're shaping the future.
The machine that dawned the digital age
75 years ago, a machine built here, at The University of Manchester, helped change the course of history.
The Ferranti Mark I, widely recognised as the world’s first commercially available general-purpose computer, transformed computing from an experimental idea into a technology that could be used beyond the laboratory. Today, as artificial intelligence opens a new chapter in the story of computing, that moment feels more relevant than ever.
In this digital mini zine we celebrate the remarkable work carried out by University researchers and the people of Ferranti Ltd who brought this machine to life. Through a series of magazine-style features, we not only celebrate the achievements of the past, but also explore some of the biggest questions facing computing today: trust, collaboration, quantum technologies, brain-inspired systems and what comes next as intelligent machines become part of everyday life.
Grounded in 91直播's pioneering computing heritage but focused firmly on the future, the mini zine reveals how 91直播 became the birthplace of modern computing.
Advancing AI research and innovation
At The University of Manchester, we believe in hybrid intelligence: AI that enhances human intelligence, rather than replaces it.
That’s why we partner closely with you to understand your key challenges and design AI solutions that directly address them, always applied responsibly and ethically.
When you collaborate with us, you gain access to:
- More than 1,600 expert researchers who can accelerate your AI project.
- A rich research ecosystem of world-leading Institutes, Centres, equipment and facilities, all supported by our interdisciplinary research Platforms.
Our scale fuels bold solutions: whatever the challenge, we are here to help you turn your ideas into action.
Connect with our experts
Exploring a research partnership, seeking R&D support, or keen to shape the future of AI? We’ll connect you with the right people.
Explore our latest AI papers
Explore the full breadth of our research, from foundational science to impactful application via our research explorer portal.
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Keep up to date with the latest AI research and community news from Digital Futures.
Our research ecosystem
Our research ecosystem supports our community to drive ideas that change the world.
Through a global network of researchers and innovators, our interdisciplinary ecosystem brings together expertise from across fields to accelerate discovery and deliver real鈥憌orld impact. From transforming healthcare and strengthening communities to advancing environmental sustainability, our Institutes and Centres create the conditions where ideas flourish, solutions scale and research improves lives locally and globally.
