MISSION KI helps people understand what “trustworthy AI” really means
I got a guided tour of MISSION KI – an interactive space at IQZ Berlin that helps people understand what “trustworthy AI” really means.
I went in expecting a traditional science centre exhibition, but it felt more like a space for discussion.
Having Henry Appenzeller and Fabian Schludi guide me through the exhibition made a huge difference. They told me that visitors often want to share their own experiences with AI and ask questions. Having someone to talk to is so much better than just walking around pressing buttons or reading panels.
Each of the exhibits was really well made, easy to understand, and (thankfully for me!) in both English and German.
Each area connects to real examples from German tech companies, showing how they use AI. One exhibit shows how someone can take a photo of a mole on their skin, have it analysed by AI, and send the results straight to a dermatologist. It’s a great example of “trustworthy AI” in action – the developers have to think about privacy and data security, how the app explains results to the patient (so it doesn’t cause panic), and how it can make its reasoning understandable.
The design of the space was thoughtful too. I loved the calming purple tones (a nice change from the usual “tech blue”) and the transparent materials fit perfectly with the idea of transparent AI systems that are open about how they work and how decisions are made.
For me, the most important thing about this space is that it’s not really about trying to explain how AI works, but it’s about creating a place where people can think, talk, and question it together. They’ve got events, talks, school tours, and workshops running all the time, which shows there’s real demand for spaces like this. It’s exactly the kind of setup we need in the UK if we want better conversations and understanding around AI.
Thank you Henry, and Fabian for your time and for helping me understand everything that’s gone into making MISSION KI.
📍IQZ Berlin, Deutsches Technikmuseum
Craig Steele