Machine learning (ML) is a branch of artificial intelligence that focuses on developing algorithms allowing computers to learn patterns and make decisions from data without explicit programming. It involves three primary types: supervised learning (learning from labeled data), unsupervised learning (identifying patterns in unlabeled data), and reinforcement learning (learning through interactions with an environment). ML algorithms improve their performance over time, making them adaptable to various tasks such as image recognition, natural language processing, and recommendation systems. The field plays a crucial role in advancing technology and automating complex tasks, contributing to innovations in diverse industries.