Artificial Intelligence Tools You Can Use Today

A general-purpose AI assistant for questions, writing, coding, research, file analysis, image creation, and everyday tasks.

Best for

Brainstorming, writing, learning, research, coding, and working with documents or images.

Cost

Free access is available, with paid plans offering additional capabilities and higher usage limits.

Good to know

AI-generated answers can still contain mistakes, so important information should be verified.

Google's AI assistant for asking questions, generating ideas, researching topics, working with images, and connecting with Google services.

Best for

People who use Google products and want AI help across personal, school, or work tasks.

Cost

A free option is available, with paid Google AI plans for expanded features and model access.

Good to know

Gemini has replaced or is replacing many earlier Google Assistant experiences across phones and home devices.

Microsoft's AI assistant is designed for everyday questions, drafting, research, and productivity across Microsoft's ecosystem.

Best for

Windows and Microsoft users who want AI help with productivity, writing, and information gathering.

Cost

Consumer access includes free experiences, while some advanced features are included with paid Microsoft plans.

Good to know

Features can vary depending on the Microsoft product, subscription, device, and account being used.

An AI assistant from Anthropic that is widely used for writing, reasoning, document work, analysis, and coding.

Best for

Long-form writing, document analysis, coding help, and thoughtful back-and-forth conversations.

Cost

Free access is available, with paid plans for additional usage and features.

Good to know

As with other generative AI tools, users should verify important facts and avoid sharing sensitive information unnecessarily.

An AI-powered answer and research service that combines conversational responses with links and citations to web sources.

Best for

Research, comparing sources, exploring unfamiliar topics, and getting a quick overview of current information.

Cost

A free option is available, with paid plans for expanded research capabilities and higher limits.

Good to know

Citations make source checking easier, but users should still inspect the underlying sources for important decisions.

Adobe's generative AI tools help users create and edit images and other visual content through text-based instructions.

Best for

Design ideas, image generation, creative experimentation, and workflows that already use Adobe applications.

Cost

Availability and usage limits vary by Adobe plan and product.

Good to know

Generative tools are most effective when users review outputs carefully for accuracy, quality, and appropriate usage rights.

Amazon's voice assistant works across Echo, Fire TV, and compatible smart-home devices for hands-free help and home control.

Best for

Smart-home control, timers, music, household routines, lists, and voice interaction around the home.

Cost

Alexa is available through compatible devices; hardware and optional services are priced separately.

Good to know

Capabilities depend on the device, connected services, and smart-home products in your setup.

Apple is expanding Siri and Apple Intelligence with more capable AI features designed to work across compatible Apple devices and apps.

Best for

People invested in the Apple ecosystem who want AI features integrated with their devices, apps, and personal context.

Cost

Features are included on supported Apple devices rather than sold as a standalone assistant.

Good to know

Availability depends on device compatibility, software version, language, region, and the rollout of newer Siri capabilities.