What is the difference between edge AI and fog computing?

Edge AI and fog computing are both approaches to decentralize data processing, but they address different layers of the architecture and serve distinct purposes. Edge AI refers to running artificial intelligence algorithms directly on edge devices (like sensors, cameras, or embedded systems) to enable real-time decision-making without relying on cloud connectivity. Fog computing, in contrast, involves distributing compute resources across a network layer between edge devices and the cloud—often using local servers or gateways—to process data closer to its source while still allowing coordination across multiple devices or systems. The key difference lies in the scope: Edge AI focuses on on-device intelligence, while fog computing organizes how data flows and is processed across a localized network.

Edge AI is designed for scenarios where immediate processing is critical. For example, a security camera with built-in object detection can analyze video feeds locally to trigger alarms without waiting for a round-trip to the cloud. This reduces latency and bandwidth usage. Developers implementing Edge AI often work with lightweight machine learning models optimized for hardware constraints, such as TensorFlow Lite for microcontrollers or ONNX Runtime for edge servers. The focus is on enabling standalone devices to perform complex tasks (like speech recognition or predictive maintenance) autonomously. However, Edge AI can be limited by the device’s compute power, making it unsuitable for tasks requiring large-scale data aggregation or cross-device analysis.

Fog computing, on the other hand, acts as a middle layer to bridge edge devices and the cloud. It’s useful when multiple devices need to share resources or when processing requires more power than a single edge device can provide. For instance, in a smart factory, sensors on assembly lines might send data to a local fog server that aggregates inputs, runs analytics, and coordinates machinery adjustments in real time. This setup avoids sending raw data to the cloud, reducing latency and costs. Fog nodes (like industrial gateways or edge servers) often handle tasks such as data filtering, protocol translation, or distributed machine learning. While fog computing enables collaboration across devices, it still depends on network infrastructure, unlike Edge AI, which operates independently on each device. Developers working with fog computing typically deal with orchestration frameworks like Kubernetes or IoT-specific platforms to manage distributed workloads.