Machine learning is a transformative branch of artificial intelligence that empowers computers to self-improve their performance through experience. By analyzing vast amounts of data, these systems identify patterns and derive insights without explicit human instructions. It's like teaching computers to learn from experience. Traditional programming involves giving explicit instructions for every task, but in machine learning, algorithms adjust themselves based on the data they process. This iterative learning process is what allows a machine learning model to refine its predictions over time. Applications are diverse and widespread, ranging from email filtering and chatbots to medical diagnosis and stock market analysis. As data continues to grow, so does the potential of machine learning, making it a foundational pillar in today's technology landscape.