A new study has revealed that artificial intelligence can now generate images of real people that are virtually impossible to tell apart from genuine photographs. Using AI models an international partnership of researchers created highly realistic images of both fictional and famous faces, including celebrities. They found that participants were unable to reliably distinguish them from authentic photos—even when they were familiar with the person’s appearance.

Diagnostic testing is big business. The global market for testing semiconductors for defects is estimated at $39 billion in 2025. For medical lab tests, the market is even bigger: $125 billion.

Both kinds of tests have something in common, says Rohan Ghuge, assistant professor of decision science in the information, risk, and operations management department at Texas McCombs. They involve complex systems with vast numbers of components, whether they’re evaluating computer chips or human bodies.

New research from Texas McCombs suggests a new approach to testing complex systems that might save time by eliminating some unnecessary and expensive steps.