Is AI really intelligent or am I making it?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) describes a technology that exhibit human-like abilities such as learning, problem-solving and image or language processing. Although its theoretical foundation dates back to the 1940s, the true implementation of AI has only become possible in recent years due to advances in data processing and computational power. This technological revolution is reshaping many disciplines, including design, where AI not only introduces new tools for creation and visualization but also challenges traditional notions of authorship and creativity.

This thesis investigates the potential and limitations of AI within the design process, with a focus on the role of generative AI in providing variants during decision-making stages. The objective is to explore how AI can be consciously integrated into design practice as a creative partner.

The adopted methodology is speculative and combines critical reflection with the creation of a lighting product. The ultimate goal of the whole process is to facilitate a clearer communication of the findings of this critical investigation.

The results reveal that while AI expands possibilities and variations, it also exposes limitations concerning control, authorship and coherence. The study concludes that integrating AI into design requires critical awareness, emphasizing the ongoing relevance of human intuition, ethics, and contextual judgment.