I think that it is more important to focus on interface design than it is to focus on the “smarts” of a system. If users are able to look at and interface and understand how to use it properly, then smarts are not required. With a well designed interface, users typically have more options, especially advanced options. One example of an easy interface but little AI is the automated checkout system in supermarkets.

Another example of an intuitive interface without much smarts is the Apple iPod. Spinning my finger around the wheel is an easy motion that relates well to what I am trying to do. I spin clockwise to turn up the volume. Click the middle button to select a menu item. Easily scroll up and down through menus. Skip songs by pressing forward. My old MP3 player (the original Nomad Jukebox) had several more buttons with specific tasks. The iPod consolidated the buttons to just the scroll wheel. This is a huge advantage because I can control the player with one hand while walking or doing some other task.

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This opinion does, of course, come from an engineering-oriented individual. I enjoy experimenting with new technologies and learn from trying things out on my own. Other people who might not be so tech savvy can often be deterred by the newest advancements. This is where some would argue the system intelligence would be able to figure out what they are trying to do. I would argue that unless the system has an approachable interface, the new users would never try the system to start with.