ai16z founder Shaw says hierarchical task networks will power Eliza v2: What exactly are they?
Shaw of ai16z, has announced the integration of hierarchical task networks (HTNs) into his AI platform, Eliza.
On Jan. 6, Shaw, the founder of ai16z (AI16Z) took to X to state that the team would also be funding the development for the HTNs integration in Eliza version two. His reply came as a response to a fellow X member @lordOfAFew, who pointed out the various challenges that AI agents face on a daily basis.
Challenges of AI agent networks
AI agents are the future of all AI companies, said Shaw on Delphi Digital podcast. He further pressed on the need to make AI agent networks robust. However, currently the hardest part for each AI agent network is setting goals with a long time range, especially when the agents are first being made. Natural language hints limit agents to following simple directions. It’s possible for agents to trade with prestructure by responding to signs, but this doesn’t give them freedom and independence.
This poses the biggest problem because it stops agents from acting on their own to reach such long-term, complicated goals. For this to work, complex task networks and the ability for strategies to explore and change on their own are needed.
To fulfill stage three autonomy requires changes in hardware, firmware, and software, which is a tough task. It is only through rapid improvement in technology, such as HTNs, that agents can handle complex, long-term tasks.
HTNs are systems that break down hard jobs into smaller, easier-to-handle chunks that are then put together in a tree-like structure. Even when things aren’t clear, AI systems would be able to plan and carry out a complex set of tasks quickly and effectively.
For instance, in the gaming industry, HTNs can allow NPCs to behave more strategically, thereby rendering dynamic and immersive experiences for players. For digital wallets, HTNs may simplify the steps involved in the process, like payment authorization, fraud detection, and balance adjustments.
How can HTNs help Eliza Labs?
The addition of HTNs to Eliza v2 means the platform will finally be able to, among other things, execute actions that include multiple steps, update plans in an instant when changes are made, and handle processes in an industry-wide manner without breaking a sweat. HTNs are a clear manifestation of the ultimate objective of Eliza Labs, which is to create AI systems that do not just react but proceed with intelligent and proactive planning that intrinsically fills in the gaps for solving real-world problems.
