AI solves Rubik’s cube — in a fraction of a second

The AI system is a deep reinforcement learning algorithm named DeepCubeA, and — perhaps even more astonishing — it doesn’t need to be provided with any specific information on the Rubik’s cube or in-game coaching to beat the puzzle. It learns all on its own.

For reference on just how impressive beating a Rubik’s Cube in under a second really is, consider that each cube features billions of possible moves and completion paths.

According to researchers, the AI solved the Rubik’s Cube in 100% of all test runs, and found the absolute shortest path to victory 60% of the time. DeepCubeA doesn’t just play with Rubik’s Cubes either, its creators say it can also play games such as Lights Out and Sokoban.