Virtual Intelligence

A virtual intelligence (VI) is a sophisticated program designed to make modern computer systems easier to use. They are not to be confused with artificial intelligences like the geth, as VIs are only utilised to assist the user and process data (although, like AIs, they can still get out of hand). Though they appear to be intelligent, they aren't actually self aware; just made with clever programming.

Some VIs have 'personality imprints', with their behaviour parameters, speech pattern and appearance based on specific individuals. The quarians were even attempting to make their 'ancestor VIs' (virtual intelligences preserving the wisdom and personality of their ancestors) truly intelligent, to create a kind of virtual immortality, when the geth rebellion put an end to most of their research into synthetic intelligence.

VI Function
VIs vary greatly depending on how they are deployed. They can handle search queries on the extranet, act as tour guides—as in the case of the Citadel VI, Avina—or manage sophisticated lab and database work, like Mira on Noveria. Both the humans and the elcor make extensive use of VIs in their military endeavours to process status reports, react faster than organics can or—in the case of the elcor—choose instantly between millions of gambits designed for any combat situation.

A lot of armor upgrades use VI enhancements, so the onboard computer can optimise the armor's combat performance or dispense medi-gel to heal the user. The newest biotic implants, the L4 iteration, use VI technology to constantly monitor the biotic's brain waves and adapt the implant's performance to maximise biotic potential.

Rogue VIs
Rogue VIs can have several meanings, but as VIs are not AIs, nor do they possess the software or hardware to become such, it does not mean that they are self-aware. As such, a VI going rogue is akin to software not working correctly - that is in fact the cause, but not the definition. A VI is rogue when it no longer does what it is intended or instructed to do; this can be. This is what gives rogue VI its definition - had the VI simply not worked, it would be more broken than rogue.

Notable VIs

 * Avina
 * Mira
 * Vigil
 * Unnamed ExoGeni VI on Feros
 * Hannibal on Luna
 * Unnamed VI on Aite

Trivia

 * If Shepard asks Bailey about Mouse during Thane's loyalty mission, he will mention that Mouse is selling a "Shepard" VI made after Shepard's death. Bringing this up to Mouse can result in credits or receiving a copy of the VI. Either way, the player does not get to see the "Shepard" VI.