AI for Good AI for Good 337d ago
Beyond black-box AI: Expressive neural networks for smarter, lighter intelligence

Beyond black-box AI: Expressive neural networks for smarter, lighter intelligence

AI is getting bigger, but does bigger always mean better? As Large Language Models (LLMs) dominate the scene, their staggering resource consumption raises urgent questions about sustainability and efficiency. In this webinar, we challenge the notion that AI must be massive to be powerful. We introduce the Expressive Neural Network (ENN), a novel architecture that rethinks activation functions through the lens of classical signal processing – specifically, the Discrete Cosine Transform (DCT). This innovative approach not only enhances a network’s flexibility and expressiveness but also leads to faster convergence and significantly smaller models, reducing both energy consumption and computational costs. ​ Our discussion bridges the gap between traditional signal processing techniques and modern AI, demonstrating how established mathematical tools can inspire next-generation machine learning. We explore how ENNs can revolutionize edge computing, enabling efficient AI in resource-constrained environments, and why expressiveness – not just size – is the key to the future of neural networks. If LLMs are the brute force of AI, could ENNs be its precision tool? Speakers: Ana Isabel Pérez-Neira Director, Centre Tecnològic de Telecomunicacions de Catalunya, Spain Moderators: Ian F. Akyildiz ITU J-FET Editor-in-Chief and Truva Inc., USA​​​ Wisdom corner Moderators: Alessia Magliarditi ITU Journal Manager, International Telecommunication Union (ITU) AI for Good is identifying innovative AI applications, building skills and standards, and advancing partnerships to solve global challenges. AI for Good is organized by ITU in partnership with over 40 UN Sister Agencies and co-convened with the Government of Switzerland. Join the Neural Network! 👉https://aiforgood.itu.int/neural-network/ The AI for Good networking community platform powered by AI. Designed to help users build connections with innovators and experts, link innovative ideas with social impact opportunities, and bring the community together to advance the SDGs using AI. 🔴 Watch the latest #AIforGood videos! https://www.youtube.com/c/AIforGood/videos 📩 Stay updated and join our weekly AI for Good newsletter: http://eepurl.com/gI2kJ5 🗞Check out the latest AI for Good news: https://aiforgood.itu.int/newsroom/ 📱Explore the AI for Good blog: https://aiforgood.itu.int/ai-for-good-blog/ 🌎 Connect on our social media: Website: https://aiforgood.itu.int/ X: https://twitter.com/AIforGood LinkedIn Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/26511907 LinkedIn Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/8567748 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aiforgood Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AIforGood Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed are those of the panelists and do not reflect the official policy of the ITU.