Artificial Intelligence (AI) researchers from the University of Queen Mary London in the U.K have successfully developed a computer program that teaches itself to create new magic tricks.

They first taught the computer program the inner workings of a magic puzzle and a mind reading card trick, along with results of previous experiments.

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According to the research, the program creates new magic tricks based on mathematical techniques instead of hand movements.

"Computer intelligence can process much larger amounts of information and run through all the possible outcomes in a way that is almost impossible for a person to do on their own." said Howard Williams, one of the researchers behind the project.

"So while, a member of the audience might have seen a variation on this trick before, the AI can now use psychological and mathematical principles to create lots of different versions and keep audiences guessing."

To allow a computer to create new tricks, several factors have to be considered. These include the size of the puzzle and the number of pieces used.

Peter McOwan, one of the researchers, said the project demonstrates the capabilities and possibilities of artificial intelligence. It also helps researchers understand the psychology of the audiences.

"For example, we suspected that audiences would be suspicious of the involvement of technology in the delivery of a trick but we've found out that isn't the case." said McOwan.

TagsMagic Tricks, Mind Reading Card Trick, University of Queen Mary London, UK, Audience, psychology