What was a prominent feature of the first AI summer?

The prominent feature of the first AI summer was indeed the establishment of AI research labs at universities. This period, which primarily took place in the 1950s and 1960s, marked a time of significant optimism and investment in artificial intelligence research. During this phase, many academic institutions recognized the potential of AI and began to formalize the study of the field by establishing dedicated laboratories and departments focused on AI research. This led to increased collaboration among researchers, innovative projects, and the development of foundational concepts and algorithms that are still relevant today.

In contrast to this burgeoning enthusiasm and establishment of research structures, skepticism towards AI technologies and decline in private sector interest were more characteristic of the periods following the first AI summer, known as AI winters. High operational costs were also a barrier in later phases, but during the first AI summer, the focus was on discovery and growth in an environment that supported exploration of artificial intelligence.