AI is literally everywhere nowadays, and expert say that we are still at the startline at fully exploring the capabilities of this technology. It seems like everything is now made with AI capabilities, even things that don’t make sense. Few days ago, I saw an AI pillow for sleeping, wondering how the heck this technology entered here.
This led me to a rabbit whole as I started researching some unconventional sectors that already use artificial intelligence and machine learning.
I found out that there are many unconventional sectors or industries that you won’t believe that they utilize artificial intelligence. We all know that AI is big in the tech world and now every smartphone comes with AI capabilities, but how about archaeology or agriculture?
Yes, AI is there as well. So, let’s explore all unconventional sectors where AI and machine learning technologies are already reshaping their future.
Horse Racing
When you think about horse racing, you probably imagine an age-old sport that is carefully tied to tradition, and the biggest technology here is the leather saddle that lasts forever. However, the modern horse racing industry is infused with data and machine learning technologies.
Most horse racing bettors would agree that horse racing has always been about data. After all, there is a reason why most bettors go to TwinSpires just to learn how to bet, scout the latest horse data, and use that information to make a prediction for an upcoming race.
But in order for bettors to use this information, data needs to be collected in the first place. The horse racing industry is now packed with specific sensors that measure all kinds of things during a race, including horse’s speed, stride length, heart rate, and more.
This data is later analyzed by trainers and they can spot areas where the horse is losing its performance.
Agriculture
Do you think agriculture is all about planting things and watching them grow? Think again. The agriculture sector has become really smart, and thanks to AI and machine learning, they can spot things like crop stress, analyze the soil, and help farmers improve their yield by more than 20%.
Have you seen those drones that fly over a field and are equipped with AI sensors, and they scan for health or potential dangers? It kind of looks like a sci-fi movie, but it is real.
Some farmers even have drones that remove any unwanted plants, thanks to AI cameras that can remove only the grass and unwanted plants near their crops or whatever they are growing.
AI in the agriculture industry is also used to analyze soil data, predict weather conditions, and satellite imagery to optimize planting schedules, which eventually cuts down water use.
There are also AI-powered apps that give you information about the best seeds to use in specific areas based on climate choices and soil.
There is huge potential when it comes to AI and machine learning in agriculture, and as more farmers quit their jobs due to harsh weather conditions and unpredictability in the business, maybe AI is the solution that will bring our farm food to our table.
Fashion
Fashion’s always been about flair, but AI’s adding a techy twist. Machine learning algorithms predict trends by scanning social media, runway shows, and sales data, helping designers craft collections that fly off racks.
In 2025, 60% of major retailers use AI to forecast demand, reducing waste by 25%, per a McKinsey report. AI-powered tools generate virtual outfits, letting shoppers “try on” clothes via augmented reality apps, boosting online sales 35%.
Algorithms also personalize recommendations, matching your style to that perfect jacket. Even sustainability gets a nod—AI optimizes fabric cutting, slashing textile waste by 15%. Sure, some worry it might homogenize creativity, but for now, AI’s the ultimate style sidekick.
AI’s playing stylist, designer, and eco-warrior, making fashion faster, greener, and tailored to your vibe.
Archaeology
Forget Indiana Jones—AI’s the new treasure hunter in archaeology. Machine learning sifts through satellite images and LiDAR scans to pinpoint hidden ruins, like ancient Mayan cities buried under jungles, with 90% accuracy.
Algorithms analyze pottery shards or bone fragments, dating them faster than traditional methods. In 2025, AI-driven robots map underwater shipwrecks, navigating depths humans can’t. Predictive models even flag at-risk sites before looters strike, saving heritage.
Some people even use drone footage from an archeological site combined with AI image processing to turn it into a 3D visual representation that can be explored even further in close detail without going to the actual place.
The downside? High costs and training gaps limit access for smaller teams. Still, AI’s dusting off history, making every dig a high-tech adventure.
AI’s digging up the past with precision, turning archaeologists into digital detectives, and uncovering secrets from centuries ago.
Music
AI’s hitting all the right notes in music, and it’s not just autotune. Machine learning algorithms compose original tracks by studying genres, from jazz to K-pop, creating songs in minutes.
In 2025, 30% of streaming platforms use AI to curate hyper-personalized playlists, boosting listener retention by 20%. AI tools analyze crowd reactions at concerts, helping artists tweak live sets.
Even amateurs get in on it—apps let you generate beats or lyrics, democratizing creativity. I’m pretty sure that most of us have already tried AI tools that will make our voice sound like a rockstar.
The challenge? Ensuring artists get credit amid AI’s rises.
So, these are some of the unconventional sectors that you can find not just traces but a multi-million-dollar AI industry. We are sure that there are many more unique industries that nobody thought they’d use AI, and if you have some ideas, drop them in the comments.
