Machine learning is a subset of artificial intelligence (AI) that enables computers to learn from and make decisions based on data. Using algorithms and statistical models, machine learning systems identify patterns and relationships within datasets to predict outcomes and improve performance over time without being explicitly programmed. There are various types of machine learning, including supervised learning, where models are trained on labeled data, and unsupervised learning, which involves identifying hidden patterns in unlabeled data. Applications of machine learning span across numerous fields, such as image and speech recognition, natural language processing, autonomous vehicles, and personalized recommendations. Its ability to analyze vast amounts of data and adapt to new information makes machine learning a critical technology for driving innovation and enhancing decision-making in diverse industries.