isn't there the deep mind project of googles that is based on visual algorithms to create a deep learning process ? I think it recently win a match against the GO champion I think it was called Alpha/Go matches.
It is interesting how many similarities there is to intelligence and observance.
Check it out, you will find it interesting is my guess.
Yes! The same pattern recognition used in vision can be used in artificial general intelligence (AGI) applications. This also means that a natural consequence of such AGI will be conscious awareness - eventually. ;)
Consious by definition is not that hard to achieve for Ai I guess. That should be the stepping stone for Ai to evolve further. A necessary step indeed. I started writting a mini novel 2 months ago EVE 1089 and I was trying to chew in data about current state of Ai. I was very surprised to see the progress been made. I do have hopes it will be in our life spawn now for sure.