Artificial intelligence (AI) in hand surgery is an emerging and evolving field that will likely play a large role in the future care of our patients. However, there remain several challenges to makes this technology meaningful, acceptable and usable at scale. In this review article, we discuss basic concepts in AI, including challenges and key considerations, provide an update on how AI is being used in hand and wrist surgery and propose potential future applications. The aims are to equip clinicians and researchers with the basic knowledge needed to understand and explore the incorporation of AI in hand surgery within their own practice and recommends further reading to develop knowledge in this emerging field.