Abstract: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly being integrated into modern software engineering (SE) processes, transforming the way systems are designed, developed, tested, and maintained. The growing usability and computational power of AI technologies enable the automation of complex engineering tasks, the enhancement of software adaptability, and the optimization of development lifecycles. However, this integration also introduces new challenges such as security vulnerabilities, ethical concerns, and risks of excessive automation. Despite significant research efforts, there is no unified framework for categorizing AI applications in SE or systematically analyzing their risks and benefits. This paper explores the evolving role of AI in software engineering, emphasizing its applications in intelligent automation, testing, optimization, and quality assurance. It further identifies opportunities, unresolved challenges, and the need for balance between human intervention and machine-driven decision-making. Finally, the study highlights future directions where AI could redefine traditional engineering paradigms and foster the emergence of autonomous, self-improving software systems.

Keywords: artificial intelligence, software engineering, machine learning, neural networks, intelligent automation, software testing, optimization, big data analytics, fuzzy logic, quality assurance

Downloads: | DOI: 10.17148/IJIREEICE.2025.13909