If you’re looking for the best AI tools of 2025, you’ve probably noticed two things. First, there are thousands out there to choose from. Second, there are so many new tools coming to market all the time, it can be hard to keep up.
Artificial intelligence technology is an exciting, dynamic, fast-moving space with so much to offer every conceivable type of user, from individual people to large enterprise businesses, and everything in between. There are currently over 27,000 AI-driven tools* to choose from, with this number growing significantly every month.
So, it’s clear that these tools are changing the game for everyone, but it can be hard to know where to look if you’re relatively new to the world of AI tech. As someone who’s extensively tested and reviewed hundreds of AI platforms, I’ve compiled this ultra-extensive list to help you navigate the evolving world of artificial intelligence. Each recommendation is largely based on my own hands-on experience, detailed comparisons, and research to ensure I can confidently tell you what’s what, no matter your industry or use case. Without further ado, let’s dive into the top AI tools on the market right now.
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What Are AI Tools?
AI tools are a very broad range of software and digital platforms that utilize artificial intelligence technology to perform tasks that would previously have required human input. By taking on these tasks without the need for any or much human intervention, AI tools reduce the time, effort, and resources needed to complete goals or projects. This means they can be integrated into processes to greatly enhance efficiency.
You could say that “AI tools” is pretty much synonymous with “productivity tools” as this is what it always comes down to — AI applications and software help us live, work, and create faster and more efficiently than ever before.
AI tools utilize an algorithm-based technology called machine learning (ML) that helps them improve their performance and accuracy over time, emulating the way humans learn from experience. This is driving the evolution of AI tools to be able to handle progressively complex tasks and make increasingly accurate predictions. Natural language processing (NLP) or neuro-linguistic programming is a form of machine learning which allows AI tools to understand and interpret human language in the same way as a person, helping it truly understand linguistic input or prompts and communicate with its human users.
In 2025, AI tools are being used and applied in so many ways that it’s hard to summarize them all. We will explore their uses by user-group and industry throughout the article. Broadly speaking, the most common ways they are used are to generate content using generative AI (be that content text, audio, image, or video), automation of repetitive tasks, process optimization, predictive analysis, personalization of user experiences, and data analysis.
In short: AI tools are designed to boost efficiency and productivity, regardless of whether it’s being used by consumers in day-to-day life or by businesses and professionals across almost all conceivable industries.
AI Tool Terms Explained: Your AI Encyclopedia
Before diving in, there are some AI terms that you should be familiar with before reading about and choosing AI tools. I’ll start below with some basic explanations, but if you want to delve deeper into each term, you can click the links to visit our full Techopedia definitions.
How Do AI Tools Work?
AI tools work using advanced mathematical algorithms called AI models, which are trained to perform specific tasks by learning patterns from data — this is the process known as Machine Learning (ML), a computerized version of how humans learn from experience.
Many tools rely on Large Language Models (LLMs) and Natural Language Processing (NLP) to understand and generate human-like language, enabling them to understand human prompts and instruction but also to function as chatbots or assist with tasks like text creation, analysis, and improvement. Users interact with these tools through written or spoken prompts, which guide the AI tools toward producing the desired output.
There are many AI tools out there which are designed to help with specific tasks, such as writing, creating videos, planning social media campaigns – the list could go on for a very long time. These will typically demonstrate Narrow AI, meaning its scope is limited by design so it focuses very efficiently on the specific task it was created for.
The hypothetical concept of Strong AI or Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) is an AI capable of performing any intellectual task a human can do, and Artificial Super Intelligence (ASI) theorizes AI exceeding human intelligence in every domain. You may be either disappointed or pleased to hear that these advanced AI types remain theoretical for now.
Types of AI Tools
AI’s versatility and rapid growth has led to its adoption across a broad range of use cases, changing how we work, create, and communicate in many different contexts. Whether you want to streamline workflows, generate innovative content, or improve customer engagement, there will be an AI for that.
5 Key Categories of AI Tool
Firstly, as AI is such a broad field, it’s important to understand the five main subsets of AI tools into which most AI tools you’ll encounter can be categorized.
- Generative AI Tools: Generative AI creates new content such as text, images, videos, music, or code by learning patterns from existing data. Examples: ChatGPT (text), DALL·E (images), Runway (video), OpenAI Codex (code), Jukebox (music).
- Natural Language Processing (NLP) Tools: NLP tools enable machines to understand, process, and generate human language for tasks like sentiment analysis, translation, and summarization. Examples: Grammarly, Google Translate, IBM Watson NLP, Hugging Face Transformers, Amazon Comprehend.
- Predictive Analytics Tools: Predictive analytics uses machine learning to analyze historical data and predict future outcomes or trends. Examples: Tableau, Microsoft Power BI, SAP Predictive Analytics, RapidMiner, and Alteryx.
- Robotic Process Automation (RPA) Tools: RPA tools automate repetitive and rule-based tasks, improving efficiency and accuracy in business processes. Examples: UiPath, Automation Anywhere, Blue Prism, Pega, Nintex RPA.
- Computer Vision Tools: Computer vision tools enable machines to interpret and analyze visual data for applications like facial recognition, object detection, and image classification. Examples: OpenCV, Amazon Rekognition, Google Cloud Vision, PyTorch Vision, and YOLO (You Only Look Once).
Specific AI Tools
Now, we can drill down deeper into the more specific or narrower types of AI tools. These are designed to have specific combinations of functionality and features that lead to unique capabilities, meaning they can help with certain goals and tasks. From real-time interaction through chatbots to creating professional-grade designs with graphic design software, let’s explore the various categories of AI tools.
- Chatbots — AI-powered virtual assistants that can interact with you in real-time, answer questions, or perform tasks.
- Writing and Content Generators — AI tools that can create text-based content, like blogs, articles, or marketing copy, in response to your prompts.
- Grammar and Text Editing Tools — AI for enhancing written content by correcting grammar, spelling, and style.
- Video Generators and Editors — AI tools for generating new content or editing existing content with automated effects or transitions.
- Search Engines — Smarter platforms that retrieve, rank, and display relevant information in response to your queries.
- Social Media Management AI Tools — Tools for creating and scheduling social media posts and then analyzing the performance.
- Image Generation and Editing Software — AI tools that create or modify images, with additional features like photo editing and enhancements.
- Graphic Design Tools — AI-assisted platforms for creating professional graphics, logos, and layouts.
- App Builders and Coding Tools — AI-powered tools for developing apps or writing and debugging code.
- Project Management Software — AI platforms that make task assignments, timelines, and team collaboration easier.
- Meeting Assistants and Note Takers — Tools for transcribing, summarizing, and organizing discussions in meetings.
- Scheduling Tools — AI systems for coordinating and optimizing meeting times and calendars across teams.
- Knowledge Management Software — Platforms that organize, search, and retrieve knowledge from your organization for easier access.
- Email Writing and Assistants — AI tools that draft, improve, and personalize emails.
- Presentation Makers — AI applications that design presentations with text, graphics, and engaging layouts.
- Resume Builders — AI tools that help you create polished, tailored resumes that will pass ATS.
- CRM, Sales, and Marketing Tools — AI-driven platforms that can better manage customer relationships, track sales, and automate marketing campaigns.
- Customer Service Tools — AI systems that handle support tickets, automate responses, and enhance customer satisfaction.
- Voice Generators and Synthesizers — Tools that create realistic, human-like voices for narration, voiceovers, or accessibility.
- Music Generators — AI platforms that compose original music or assist with sound production and remixing.
- AI Headshot Generators — Tools that create professional-quality headshots from existing images or AI-generated visuals.
AI Tools: Uses and Examples
Here’s a side-by-side comparison of all the types of AI tools, what they are used for, and examples of each one:
AI Tool Type | Used For | Example Tool |
---|---|---|
Chatbots |
|
ChatGPT, Claude, Google’s Gemini, Microsoft Copilot |
Writing and Content Generators |
|
Jasper, Scalenut, Writesonic |
Grammar and Text Editing Tools |
|
Quillbot, Grammarly |
Video Generators and Editors |
|
Lovo.ai, Synthesia, Pictory AI, Adobe Premiere Pro |
AI Search Engines |
|
Perplexity, Google AI Overview, Arc Search |
Social Media Management AI Tools |
|
Canva, Picsart, Hootsuite, Sprout Social |
Image Generation and Editing Software |
|
DALL-E 3, Midjourney, Stable Diffusion, GetIMG, Adobe Firefly |
Graphic Design Tools |
|
Picsart, Canva, Adobe Express |
App Builders and Coding Tools |
|
Softr, Microsoft PowerApps, Google AppSheet |
Project Management Software |
|
monday.com, ClickUp, Asana |
Meeting Assistants and Note Takers |
|
Otter.ai, Fireflies.ai |
Scheduling Tools |
|
Reclaim, Clockwise, Motion |
Knowledge Management Software |
|
Documen360, Confluence, Notion |
Email Writing and Assistants |
|
Grammarly, Copy.ai, Writesonic, Rytr |
Presentation Makers |
|
Synthesia, Canva, Adobe Express |
Resume Builders |
|
Enhancv, Resume.io, Rezi |
CRM, Sales, and Marketing Tools |
|
HubSpot, Salesforce, Pipedrive |
Customer Service Tools |
|
Zendesk, Freshdesk |
Voice Generators and Synthesizers |
|
ElevenLabs, Murf AI |
Music Generators |
|
Udio, KitsAI, |
AI Headshot Generators |
|
BetterPic, Fotor, Canva |
In addition to dedicated, sole-purpose or narrow AI tools, there are also many types of software that have started to implement AI tools within the larger feature set, like AI photo editors, CRM systems, and web builders. Any market leading digital product you’ll use today will have some AI-driven features or functionality.
Do these count as AI tools? In a sense, they certainly do. However, I usually define an AI tool as a system or software with AI at its core and as a fundamental part of its design and base capabilities.
Cost & Pricing for AI Tools
With such a wide range of AI tools available, pricing varies massively. Many tools offer tiered pricing to cater to both individual users and larger enterprises. Pricing can be set monthly or annually, with per-user plans providing a flexible option to upscale according to your needs. Basic plans are often accessibly priced with a more limited feature set which may be sufficient for solo users or small businesses, while premium or enterprise plans provide more advanced features and support.
Below is an outline of average pricing brackets across the main categories of AI tools, along with examples of specific providers. You can use this as a rough guide when evaluating whether AI tools are financially viable for your budget:
AI Tools Average Pricing and Plans
Tool category | Free Tier Common? | Basic Tier | Mid Tier | EnterpriseTier | AI Tool Example |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Chatbots | ✅ | Usually free | $20-$25/month | $200+/month | ChatGPT: $0-$200/month |
Writing and Content Generators | ✅ | $0-$25/month | $40-$80/month | $100-$500+/month | Jasper |
Grammar and Text Editing Tool | ✅ | Usually free | $5-$10/month | $15-$25/month | Grammarly |
Video Generators and Editors | ✅ | $0-$16/month | $45-$55/month | $60-$75/month | Adobe Premiere Pro |
Search Engines | ✅ | Usually free | $20/month | — | Perplexity AI |
Social Media Management AI Tools | ✅ | $0-$99/month | $199-$249/month | $400+/month | Hootsuite |
Image Generation and Editing Software | ✅ | $0-$10/month | $20-$100/month | $120+/month | GetIMG |
Graphic Design Tools | ✅ | Usually free | $5-$7/month | $9-$12/month | Picsart |
Project Management Software | ✅ | $0-$5/month | $7-$25/month | Custom pricing | monday.com |
Meeting Assistants and Note Takers | ✅ | Usually free | $8-$20/month | $39+/month | Otter.ai |
Scheduling Tools | ✅ | $0-$10/month | $10-$18/month | $18+/month | Reclaim |
Knowledge Management Software | ✅ | $0-$4/month | $9-$14/month | Custom pricing | Notion |
Email Writing and Assistants | ✅ | $0-$7/month | $7.50-$24/month | $24-$36/mont | Rytr |
Presentation Makers | ✅ | Usually free | $16-$200/month | Custom pricing | Synthesia |
Resume Builders | ✅ | $0-$3/month | $29-$74/month | $74-$149/month | Enhancv |
CRM, Sales, and Marketing Tools | ❌ | $9-$25/month | $34-$100/month | $99-$165/month | HubSpot |
Customer Service Tools | ❌ | $0-$55/month | $15-$89/month | $99+/month | Zendesk |
Voice Generators and Synthesizers | ✅ | $0-$29/month | $11-$99/month | Custom pricing | ElevenLabs |
Music Generators | ✅ | $0-$10/month | $5-$19.99/month | $30+/month | KitsAI |
AI Headshot Generators | ❌ | $2-$35/per generation | $6-$39/per generation | $59-$79/per generation | BetterPic |
This is just a rough representation of pricing across different types of tools, it’s not a definitive breakdown of all the many tools out there. The exact prices will, of course, depend on the specific provider you’re interested in, its value for money, and how premium its feature offering is. So, it’s worth doing some of your own research to understand what you’ll pay for a tool in your specific niche.
The good news is that, ultimately, there’s an AI tool at all price points, even tons of free options, which I’ll get into in the next section.
Paid vs Free AI Tools
Many AI tools on the market offer free trials or limited-access free versions to help you explore the features before committing to the full paid version. For example, tools like Jasper AI and Canva provide short, all-access trials, which allow you to test the features without financial commitment.
Free-forever plans may be sufficient for solo users or smaller businesses but can have limitations — like restricted usage, generation caps, no possibility to download work, or lack of a commercial license.
In my opinion, affordable premium plans are better than free plans, as they provide better value, advanced features, increased usage limits, and rights for commercial use, which makes them a suitable, sustainable choice for pretty much all users.
Benefits of AI Tools
While the specific benefits of AI tools are too numerous to count, it’s easy enough to pinpoint the one overarching attraction of AI adoption for both individuals and businesses: AI allows you to do more, faster, and probably better. Think of it as an extra pair of hands that helps boost efficiency — all AI tools are, essentially, productivity tools. By automating tasks that typically would require your time and energy, or offering a faster route to new ideas, AI tools can help speed up the completion of complex projects, or take care of more simple tasks. This means you can focus on higher-value work or achieve more in less time.
Here are some other key, across-the-board benefits of AI tools for both businesses and individuals:
- Better Accuracy — Minimizes human error in data entry, analysis, or diagnosis of errors.
- Cost Savings — Streamlines workflows and improves operational efficiency, which reduces overhead costs.
- Personalization — Helps create tailored experiences, such as customized recommendations or targeted marketing.
- Accessibility — Makes advanced tools and insights available to smaller businesses and individuals without the need for technical learning curves or huge financial investment.
- Faster Decision-Making — Provides data-driven insights and real-time analytics to support quick, well-informed decisions.
- Scalability — Enables businesses to grow with less additional investment in human resources.
Who Should Use AI Tools?
AI tools are incredibly versatile and can offer benefits for almost anyone and everyone in 2025. Their ability to learn, collect, and analyze data, generate content, answer questions, make predictions, and automate tasks makes AI tools valuable to both individuals and businesses.
Whether you’re looking to save time, improve productivity, or simply make life more enjoyable with less hassle, AI tools have applications for nearly every aspect of life. Here are some broad user groups that may find value in adopting AI tools:
- People wanting to make daily life easier and more productive — Anyone can use AI tools to stay organized, automate tasks, and make life more convenient.
- People wanting to boost their income — People can use AI to support freelance gigs, side hustles, or content creation.
- Professionals across various industries — Most professionals will be able to adopt a form of AI to streamline workflows, gain smarter insights, and boost productivity.
- Students, academics, and researchers — Create better study materials and get help with research and writing for more effective, accessible learning.
- Educators/teachers — AI can help create engaging and personalized lesson plans for different types of learners and help you save time on tasks such as grading and admin.
- Businesses — AI tools have very large and broad potential to improve customer service, marketing, sales, and operational efficiency with AI-driven solutions.
- Creatives — Artists across many disciplines can work with generative AI to create or edit art, music, designs, or written content.
AI tools have the potential to make life more efficient and productive for a huge variety of audiences, tech-savvy or not.
Now, I’ll make a side-by-side comparison of the potential use cases of AI, as well as some examples of tools.
How AI Tools Benefit Different Users
Users of AI | Benefits | Tool Examples |
---|---|---|
People wanting to enhance their daily lives | Saving time and staying organized, health monitoring, personal finance | ChatBots, Virtual Assistants |
People wanting to supplement their income | Making your time and resources go further and enhancing existing skillsets to gain extra income | Content Generators, Organizational and Scheduling Tools |
Professionals across various industries | Reclaim time from menial tasks and manual processes to spend on more high-value, productive activities; gaining sharper insights; personalizing services to customers | CRM, Project Management, Social Media Management Tools |
Students, academics, and researchers | Enhance study techniques, generate citation-backed content more quickly, and speed up reading times. | Grammar Checkers, Note-taking, and Summarizing Tools |
Educators/teachers | Make learning more enjoyable for students and more accessible to different learning styles while saving yourself time on repetitive tasks | Content Generators, Design Tools |
Businesses | Make businesses more efficient and profitable by reducing manual processes and resource spent on automatable tasks; gain sharper business insights and more accurate forecasts | Virtual Assistants, CRM, and Project Management |
Creatives | Unlock new avenues to creativity, create new styles of work you wouldn’t have thought of, and enter into a fast-growing genre of AI art and music. | Content Generators, Design and Editing Tools |
AI Tools for Beginners
If you’re new to AI, there are certain AI tools I’d recommend to beginners. These are popular, big-name, all-in-one AI chatbots and tools that are very easy to use and free to experiment with. They’re great options for developing your understanding of how AI can help you in your daily and professional lives.
- OpenAI (ChatGPT and DALL-E) — A platform offering natural language interactions (ChatGPT) and prompt-based image generation (DALL-E).
- Google Gemini (formerly BARD) — Google’s AI tool for learning, writing, and brainstorming.
- Claude — An AI assistant from Anthropic designed for thoughtful, conversational responses with an ethical focus.
- Perplexity AI — A conversational AI tool that is capable of real-time search results and references.
- Microsoft Copilot — AI-powered productivity assistant built into the larger Microsoft ecosystem, making it an excellent copilot for professional teams.
Once you’re familiar with working with more general AI tools like chatbots, you can get a little more purpose-specific. There’s an AI tool out there for almost any niche, and many will offer advanced functionality for improving particular processes.
Some of my current favorite AI tools that are perfect for beginners include:
- Jasper — An advanced AI writing tool aimed at diverse marketing and commercial purposes.
- Quillbot — A paraphrasing, summarizing, and grammar-checking tool with a generous free plan.
- Rytr — A user-friendly writing assistant that excels at short-form content like emails, social media posts, and SEO meta-data.
- ElevenLabs — An AI voice synthesis platform for creating realistic, expressive voiceovers and audio.
- ArtSmart — A creative AI tool specializing in generating and refining artistic content for various projects.
- Speechify — My absolute favourite text-to-speech app designed to help improve reading comprehension, speed up reading times, and for creating audiobooks. There are many applications for teachers and students who want to make reading material more accessible to different types of learners.
- Pictory AI — One of the easiest applications I’ve used to create videos from simple text prompts.
- Looka AI — This must be the simplest way to make brand or company assets like logos and websites — fast, simple, affordable, and the output is professional-grade.
- HubSpot — If you want to bring AI into your work in sales, marketing, or customer service departments, start with HubSpot, as it’s genuinely the only tool you’ll ever need for all departments, and despite being a hugely comprehensive tool, it offers a free plan and is effortless to learn and navigate.
Finally, if you’re a total AI beginner, the following two resources will help you get started:
- Since AI is a hugely diverse and constantly evolving technology, getting your head around how to use AI to help your specific industry or daily routines is a great place to start.
- One thing I’ve noticed from using various AI tools is that the success of the output largely depends on the quality of your prompt, that is the request you enter into the AI tool. Learning how to write AI prompts is a crucial part of AI 101.
AI in Daily Life: AI Tools to Enhance Your Day-to-Day
AI, once considered a niche technology, has quickly become a mainstay for people from all walks of life, helping to make everyday tasks run smoother. A recent stat reported that the majority (55%) of Americans said they use AI regularly. While it can take care of complex, technical tasks, it also helps with general life admin, health and fitness, budgeting, and getting from A to B.
Let’s explore how AI can help you save time, make informed decisions, and stay organized in your daily life.
AI Tools for Life Admin and Organization — Virtual assistants like our friends, Siri and Alexa, have now become integral parts of our daily lives. So much so that as of 2024, 75.6 million of us have an Alexa at home. These virtual assistants perform various functions, such as enabling hands-free communication, reminding you of important appointments, and even hitting the lights once you’re already in bed.
AI Tools for Personal Finance — AI finance tools have redefined budgeting and financial management by analyzing your spending habits, providing personalized savings plans, and predicting future expenses using machine learning algorithms. Less error-prone than manual budgeting in spreadsheets, AI finance tools can usually integrate with private banking apps to give real-time, accurate insights into your finances. For personal budgeting, I recommend using Mint or YNAB, two highly effective tools that provide better insight into your monthly spending and offer savings suggestions.
AI Tools for Personal Health and Fitness — Smartphone AI health apps, like MyFitnessPal, have been around for quite some time, and currently, an impressive 454.69 million people worldwide wear AI smartwatches, highlighting the booming popularity of health and wellness in mainstream culture. These devices don’t just track health metrics — they actively encourage users to become more health-conscious and can reduce the reliance on self-reporting to doctors. If you’re in the market for wearable AI gadgets, I’ve had my eye on an Oura Ring, which offers subtle and stylish health monitoring. For a sportier option, check out Fitbit or Apple Watch models, both of which are popular choices for tracking fitness and activity and now utilize AI for personalized health insights.
AI Tools for Getting Answers and Support with Tasks — When it first emerged, ChatGPT was a niche platform that only individuals with sufficient technical knowledge could utilize effectively. Nowadays, AI search engines, chatbots, and language assistants are frequented every day by mainstream users who seek instant answers and support with everyday problem-solving. Its encyclopedic knowledge can help with countless tasks, whether you need cooking tips, project research, or troubleshooting advice.
AI Tools for Driving and Navigation — GPS navigation has been widely used since the 1990s, but newer AI-powered GPS and navigation systems offer advanced features such as real-time traffic updates, optimal route suggestions, and accurate travel time predictions. The most commonly used AI navigation apps are Google Maps and Apple Maps, which most people already have on their smartphones. Another great app is Waze, which uses social sharing to update real-time traffic conditions.
I also created a guide to the best ChatGPT alternatives to help Techopedia readers look beyond the most obvious choice and find chatbots that are better suited to their specific goals
AI Tools for Creatives, Writers, and Editors
While I understand the friction between AI and the arts, there have been several notable examples of successful collaboration between the two. One that caught my eye was Refik Anadol displaying his AI-generated artwork on the degradation of coral reefs at the UN headquarters in September of this year. He expresses his hope that his work “inspires people to see how technology can foster deeper connections with our planet and empower us to work together toward a more sustainable world.” I find this to be a motivating example of how creatives can embrace AI to enhance their artistic missions rather than struggle against its rapid growth.
On that note, let’s explore how creatives, content creators, and editors can benefit from AI tools in their work:
AI Tools for Writers
AI tools have become natural sidekicks for writers, transforming how written content is conceived, created, and refined. As the demand for online content continues to grow, these tools help creators meet tight deadlines and overcome creative obstacles. They not only accelerate the writing process but also help with brainstorming, editing, and repurposing content. In addition to commercial writers, authors, screenwriters, and poets can also benefit from AI tools, particularly for generating new ideas and workshopping their creations.
All writers face writer’s block at times, especially when under pressure. Using AI as a sort of sounding board can help work through this. It can also organize scattered thoughts before diving in. Personally, introducing AI in my research and ideation stages has been a helpful way for me to focus on the clarity of my writing instead of getting bogged down in the process. Additionally, AI can help massively with SEO optimization, tone adjustments, and multilingual translations, which allows writers to expand their audience. I believe that AI can’t replace creativity—it just enhances and complements the writing process, making tedious tasks less time-consuming.
Some of the best AI writing tools include Jasper for content drafting, Writesonic for generating tailored articles, and Rytr for brainstorming and reformatting ideas. For live in-text content editing, Grammarly and QuillBot‘s browser extensions ensure total clarity, while Scalenut helps to optimize your content for search engines.
AI Tools for Artists and Digital Art
While many believe that AI spells the end of creativity as we know it, AI-powered art tools also have the potential to allow artists to expand their creative boundaries. These tools can help generate innovative ideas, enhance processes, and be used in experimental ways to automate the creation of stunning generative visuals.
Artists are using AI for idea development, scaling existing artworks, or reimagining concepts in new styles and directions. AI tools can help artists who are just starting out to prototype ideas before spending money creating final pieces of work, which saves precious time and money. By easily being able to apply filters and effects or use automated AI processes, artists can see how their work looks in totally different styles and experiment with unpredictable outcomes to break new ground in their artistic practice.
The most popular platforms include MidJourney and Stable Diffusion for high-quality generative art features. Personally, I’m a fan of GetIMG’s platform for free experimentation, while DeepArt Effects and ArtSmart are ideal for their user-friendly interfaces.
AI Tools for Graphic Design
The world of graphic design is also embracing AI to speed up the completion of tedious tasks and allow professionals to focus on the fun parts: creativity and design strategy. Adobe’s October 2024 developments introduced generative tools for image editing, 3D design, and ideation, which have already been transformative for those in the industry.
Many tasks under the umbrella of graphic design are relatively simple fixes but can be complicated to complete without technical knowledge of advanced programs like Photoshop. Thanks to recent AI updates to the platform, it’s now possible to complete one-click background removal, extend images, and replace objects. This lets experienced graphic designers work much quicker while also making the profession more accessible to those without formal training.
As mentioned, the Adobe suite is the go-to toolkit for graphic designers. Additionally, user-friendly tools like Picsart and Canva can be great for business owners without design knowledge who want to explore a DIY approach — enabling them to maintain creative agency over their visual identity. With some of the best logo generators, it’s also possible to take care of the entire branding process of your startup or side hustle.
AI Tools for Musicians
While copyright disagreements in the music industry are nothing new, the introduction of AI with its grey area approach to authorship has rocked the boat slightly, leading labels to sue certain platforms for copyright infringement. Despite this, some musicians are embracing AI to streamline music production and experiment with creative outcomes.
AI music production tools can assist with time-consuming tasks like stem-splitting, separating vocals from instruments to create remixes, generating melodies, or experimenting with sound design. One of the most futuristic and controversial AI technologies is vocal cloning, which can have a useful application within music as it allows producers to experiment with ideas without the need for a live vocalist or recording session. It’s also possible to use AI for mixing and mastering, meaning the entire process of music production can be less time-consuming and expensive.
Some of the top AI music production tools include KitsAI for instrument and beat creation and ElevenLabs and Murf AI for vocal cloning.
AI Tools for Photography and Videography, and Animation
AI tools are transforming photography, videography, and animation by providing helpful shortcuts for achieving high-quality, professional-grade results. The demand for vertical video content on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram has skyrocketed, making this a dominant, in-demand content format that video creators can capitalize on with the help of AI video tools. AI is bridging technical skill gaps, allowing more people to actively contribute to social media, which I believe is a positive development.
AI tools can help you with color grading, object removal, scene stabilization, and even generating animations from static images. For photographers, tools offer enhanced photo editing features, such as automated retouching, background adjustments, and generative expansion. Videographers can save hours spent on manual editing by using AI to cut footage, sync audio, or create transitions — freeing up more time to think creatively or work on set.
Of course, the main video editing platform used by professionals is Adobe Premiere Pro, which has recently seen AI developments. Alternatively, you can check out Lovo AI for help with scriptwriting, video generation, and editing, or Pictory AI for a user-friendly video editing experience. If you’re looking to add voiceovers or dub existing content, you should consider ElevenLabs, which is one of the best AI voice generators out there.
- the best AI video generators,
- the best AI photo editors,
- and the best AI voice generators.
AI Tools for Business
Adopting AI tools in the workplace can greatly relieve your employees’ workload and enhance the efficiency of your operations in various ways. They can make complex processes much more efficient by automating the simpler, tedious, repetitive tasks without the need for human intervention, allowing you and your team to focus more on high-value, productive work or providing personalized service with an invaluable human touch. There are many business use cases for AI tech. Let’s explore some of the main areas in which it can assist.
AI Tools for Marketing
The main way in which AI has revolutionized the marketing industry is by allowing businesses to hyper-personalize campaigns. Studies show that personalized campaigns lead to a 15% increase in revenue on average, with top-performing companies even seeing a 40% uplift. Other ways in which AI improves marketing efforts is by using data to predict future customer behavior and optimize advertising spending. AI tools analyze vast amounts of data in real-time, giving marketers insights into trends and audience preferences that were previously unattainable unless you have data analysis skills.
Marketing is full of tedious tasks like audience segmentation, A/B testing, and personalization. AI can automate these data-heavy tasks, providing a higher level of accuracy while saving you time to focus on the more creative side of marketing, which is often the fun part. With AI campaigns and audience tracking, you can automate the collection of valuable data that can be used to guide future marketing strategies, overall supporting more relevant, tailored campaigns that will engage your audience.
The HubSpot Marketing Hub is, in my eyes, the best AI-driven suite for marketers on the market today. As of September 2024, it rolled out a whole suite of new AI features called HubSpot Breeze that make campaign creation and tracking that much easier. For actual marketing content creation, Jasper and Copy.ai are two tools geared specifically towards commercial and marketing copywriting, so can make writing engaging texts much easier.
If you want to learn more about the AI tools that can supercharge your social media marketing strategies, check out my dedicated guide on the best AI social media tools.
AI Tools for Sales
Moving to a different stage in the sales funnel, sales teams can benefit from using AI to streamline workflows, nurture leads, and close deals faster. According to HubSpot’s 2024 study, more than 40% of sales professionals already use AI in their daily work. This figure is sure to naturally increase, as many sales CRMs like Salesforce are adding AI features to their systems.
AI tools assist with lead scoring, sales forecasting, and pipeline management. By automating routine tasks, like personalized follow-ups triggered by client actions, sales teams will miss fewer leads due to human error, and they can focus on building stronger human relationships.
Sales teams of all sizes can benefit from AI automation. For smaller teams, it allows sales representatives to maximize their time and scale their efforts effectively. For larger sales operations that manage hundreds or thousands of clients, AI automation helps maintain a personal touch through the data-led personalization of marketing campaigns and customer communications like emails, giving a trustworthy ‘small business’ feel even to enterprise businesses; this can work wonders for customer relationships.
Some of the top sales tools implementing AI include HubSpot Sales Hub, Salesforce Sales Cloud, and Pipedrive — all of which support optimal sales pipeline management, thanks to their smart AI features.
AI Tools for SEO
Since its a field that involves a lot of data, SEO is another interesting playgound for AI. It can help automate keyword research, optimize content, and track the performance of articles in the SERPs and against competitors. While AI in SEO can definitely be valuable, as it’s a rather trial-and-error, experimental field, rigid automation can sometimes be tricky to implement.
AI SEO tools help prepare new content, supporting you in finding high-value keywords and evaluating competitor performance. They can also retroactively optimize your existing content for better SEO performance by suggesting changes in keywords, headings, and word count. Using AI in SEO minimizes manual guesswork, helping your testing be more controlled and data-backed.
My go-to AI SEO tools include Scalenut for comprehensive SEO content creation and strategy and Surfer SEO for user-friendly, gamified content optimization. Other tools like SEMrush are also adding AI features to support users with writing and keyword analysis.
AI in Customer Service and Management
Similar to its use in sales in marketing, AI in customer service can redefine how businesses interact with their clients. The biggest impact AI has had in customer service is the introduction of chatbots, which can reportedly answer 80% of questions, 80% faster than live agents. In addition, AI can support round-the-clock availability of customer support, analyze the sentiment of interactions, and intelligently organize tickets based on time-sensitivity.
Anyone that’s worked in customer support will know that the vast majority of queries fall into the category of ‘FAQ’, which means that filtering out the most common questions and routing them to AI can save human agents’ time to deal with more complex issues. Another great feature of AI in customer support is agents receiving live suggestions on how best to deal with queries. While it may seem a little impersonal, customers will be able to enjoy faster resolution to their problems thanks to the introduction of AI.
Top AI CRMs such as HubSpot, Salesforce Service Cloud, and Zendesk are leading the charge in this department by developing smart AI solutions to help both agents and customers.
AI in HR and Recruitment
There are numerous impactful applications of AI technology in HR, and the adoption rate for this industry is already wide-spread. Last year, McKinsey reported that as many as 60% of businesses implemented AI in the talent management process. Additionally, AI has the potential to transform how companies manage the staff post-hire. By automating repetitive tasks and administrative duties, HR teams can concentrate on positive initiatives that enhance the work experience, ultimately making work more enjoyable for everyone involved.
Key applications of AI in the world of HR include screening resumes to quickly identify the strongest candidates, scheduling interviews, automating follow-ups, and providing onboarding assistance. AI tools can also support performance reviews, predict employee attrition, and recommend training programs to help upskill staff.
Some of the most popular platforms for HR automation include BambooHR, Greenhouse, and Workable. For help with generating job descriptions, you can also try out content generators like Rytr or Jasper, which offer a free plan and a free trial respectively.
- For faster, sharper email creation to ensure professional communication, I’d recommend taking a look at my dedicated guide to the best AI email generators.
- For speeding up the creation of presentations and improving the quality of their content, consider choosing one of the best AI presentation makers.
- For creating a business website and growing your online presence, take a look at the best AI website builders on the market today.
AI for Work and Careers
AI tools have many invaluable applications for those looking to take the next step in their career or build out their freelance business. Utilizing AI tools and developing your knowledge of how AI works is a sure-fire way to sharpen your CV, apply for jobs more effectively, make you more employable, and generate more income.
It was recently reported that 72% of organizations in the US consider AI-supported eLearning crucial for maintaining a competitive edge in talent development. There are many AI tools that have been developed specifically to help improve your job applications, resumes, and communication with potential employers. What’s more, AI opens up a whole new world of opportunities for freelancers or those trying to run side businesses.
AI for Career Development
For recent graduates or those journeying up the career ladder, AI tools can also offer useful benefits in helping to identify suitable jobs, build winning CVs, write cover letters, and generate professional headshots with minimal financial investment.
One of the first steps when searching for a job is to make a list of interesting vacancies. You can use an AI job-matching service. These work similarly to dating apps, but they find your match made in heaven in a career context, saving you time manually trawling through job boards. Next up, you’ll need to make an eye-catching CV and write a relevant cover letter in line with the job description. If you want to go the extra mile to stand out, you can generate some professional headshots too.
Some of the standout tools for generating cover letters, resumes, and headshots include BetterPic, HeadshotPro, Enhancv, Jasper, and Rytr. You can also check out tools like CareersPro for planning your next career moves, and tools like Coursera or Udemy for upskilling in preparation for your next big break.
What about using AI to… get a job in the AI industry? Take a look at our dedicated guide on how to get a job in AI.
I’ve also reviewed some of the best cover letter generators, the best resume builders, and the best headshot generators, too, which will help make your job searches more efficient and successful.
AI for Freelancers and Side Hustles
If you’re looking to use AI to make an income or support a side hustle, there’s a wealth of different approaches you can consider. Maximizing the potential of automation in AI can set you well on your way to achieving multiple streams of income; some can even be passive forms of income. Many great AI tools are inexpensive to use — all you need is access to the internet and a bright idea to make this work.
Generating Monetizable Content — Generative AI tools make it easier for people to produce high-quality blogs, videos, and social media posts to be monetized through platforms like YouTube, Instagram, affiliate marketing blogs, and ad-supported sites.
Offering Professional AI-Backed Services — While becoming a successful freelancer doesn’t happen over night, sites like Upwork and Fiverr offer the opportunity to begin building a client base for a range of different services. AI tools can be valuable in enhancing your existing skills as well as improving the quality and speed of the services you can offer to paying clients, which maximizes your chances of launching a lucrative side hustle or business. Considering that Fiverr alone has around 4.2 million active buyers on its platform (a buyer being someone who has paid for a freelance service within the last 12 months), there is certainly business out there to be captured by dedicated self-employed workers — and AI tools can help give them a competitive edge.
AI-Driven Promotions and Marketing to Drive Revenue — AI has also made it easier than ever to market yourself online or offer digital marketing as a service. By using AI-driven analytics tools and creating and tracking targeted campaigns, you can help small businesses and solo entrepreneurs find their audience online — and share the profits. Statistics show that using AI in marketing can result in a boost in conversion rates of up to 35% (meaning, a boost in how many people buy your product or sign up to your service).
Creating Assets to Sell Using AI — On sites like Etsy and eBay, there’s a huge market of online sellers creating unique assets like digital art, e-books, and personalized items. With AI art generators or editing tools, you can create sellable assets like logos for businesses, create personalized cards or wedding gifts, or generate customizable storybooks for kids. The key to success is combining original ideas with market trends and tastes, and AI can help streamline your creative process enough so that you could potentially make this a full-time gig.
Developing Apps, Software, and AI Models to Sell — For tech-savvy individuals, AI can help you build and sell apps, software, and even new AI models. You don’t necessarily need a degree in computer science or coding experience, as many AI tools are no- or low-code- and allow budding developers with niche ideas to create tailored products that solve real-world problems. For more info on the best AI coding tools like, check out my full guide.
For more information, check out my extensive guide to the 31 ways you can make money with AI in 2025.
Here, I make recommendations for the AI tools you’ll need to succeed with all of the above, such as Jasper for Ai-supported writing, Bubble for coding support, GetIMG and ArtSmart for image generation, Simplified for social media marketing, and much more.
AI In Education and Research
AI is also having a transformative effect on education and research, changing how students learn, teachers teach, and researchers make progress. From personalized learning experiences with AI in the classroom to making admin tasks easier for educators, AI in schools is reshaping traditional methods. This year, advancements in AI-powered tools have made them even more accessible and effective, offering tailored solutions for schools, universities, and research institutions.
AI for Students
The study process has become significantly easier with the introduction of AI tools that streamline learning for students from elementary school through college. One of the biggest advantages of using AI in education is the increased availability of personalized assistance. This allows students to engage in self-study without needing a live teacher to check their work. For those with diverse learning needs, AI-powered applications, such as text-to-speech and translation tools, can help fill knowledge gaps and ensure that educational materials are inclusive for all learners.
Another way AI has simplified studying is through content generation, which has raised legitimate concerns regarding plagiarism. While content generators like ChatGPT can be extremely helpful in both the research and writing processes, there are valid worries about dishonesty if students rely too heavily on AI to complete their assignments.
Several AI platforms can help students complete assignments. These include Quillbot, which is a free grammar and spelling checker that supports 1,000 citation styles, including APA, MLA, and Chicago, ensuring flawless citing of sources for academic papers. It can also be used for paraphrasing and summarizing lengthy texts for faster reading. In addition, video generators like Pictory AI, which can be used to create engaging video assignments.
AI for Teachers, Professors and Educators
Not only are students benefiting from the ease of using AI tools in education, but educators, professors, and teachers are finding them to be game-changers as well. Teaching is notoriously one of the most time-consuming professions, with work often continuing long after the bell rings. By automating repetitive tasks such as grading, attendance tracking, and lesson planning, teachers can reclaim valuable time. This allows them to feel more energized to connect with their students and foster a healthier work-life balance.
One of the biggest hurdles in teaching is balancing making lessons engaging yet also informative and in accordance with the set curriculum. For some teachers, creativity may come naturally, while for some, it may be an extra hassle. Using AI design and presentation tools, like Canva or Synthesia, can offer a quick shortcut to achieving eye-catching and personalized lessons that will keep your students switched on.
Other tools, such as Gradescope and Turnitin, provide an easy way to speed up the tedious process of grading, while content generators like Jasper AI, Lovo AI, and ArtSmart are some of the best tools for speeding up the creation of engaging lesson plans.
AI for Researchers
AI has brought significant advantages to researchers engaged in intensive activities such as data analysis, literature reviews, and experiment design. While researchers will benefit similarly to students, their focus will be more on processing existing data and reviewing literature rather than acquiring new knowledge. NLP tools for paraphrasing and summarizing will be particularly useful for navigating lengthy academic texts, and AI technologies can help make vast datasets more manageable by identifying patterns and organizing information effectively.
Concerns about maintaining academic integrity also arise with the use of AI in post-graduate research, particularly regarding authorship and originality. Content generators can blur the lines of authorship, and the reuse of existing material may lead to disputes about the originality of the work. However, AI also offers significant advantages, supporting researchers in working efficiently to achieve valuable breakthroughs, especially through AI-driven simulations that speed up scientific discovery in fields like medicine, engineering, and climate change.
Some of the best AI tools for researchers include Quillbot, which offers free summarizing and paraphrasing as well as citation generation. It’s also great for checking grammar and spelling. I’d also recommend Writesonic as it’s a content generator that works with live Google research, meaning its output is more reliably current and up-to-date than that of other AI generation tools.
AI Tools for Professional Industries
AI’s applications are far-reaching and beneficial in almost any industry, including healthcare, finance, and construction. Progressive leaders have been exploring artificial intelligence solutions for several years now to identify smarter ways of working that will improve service, streamline processes, and boost productivity. Here are some of the top industries where this is making waves.
Now let’s take a look at each industry side-by-side to consider the applications, benefits, and types of tools associated with each:
Industry | Who/Where? | Applications | Benefits | Types of Tool |
---|---|---|---|---|
Healthcare | Doctors offices, clinics, hospitals, and medical research | AI-powered diagnostics Robotic surgeries Personalized treatment plans Drug discovery |
Improved accuracy in diagnosis Enhanced surgical precision Faster drug development Tailored patient care |
NLP tools, Predictive Analytics, Robotic Process Automation (RPA), Computer Vision |
Finance | Banks, investment firms, credit agencies | Fraud detection Algorithmic trading Credit scoring Chatbots for customer service |
Reduced financial risks Better trading strategies Automated decision-making Improved customer interactions |
Predictive Analytics, NLP tools, Chatbots, RPA |
Retail & Ecommerce | Online and brick-and-mortar stores | Personalized recommendations Inventory management Dynamic pricing Automated customer support |
Better customer engagement Efficient stock control Competitive pricing strategies Faster issue resolution |
Generative AI tools, Predictive Analytics, Chatbots, Computer Vision |
Manufacturing | Factories, industrial plants, supply chain hubs | Predictive maintenance Quality control Supply chain optimization Robotics |
Reduced downtime Consistent product quality Streamlined operations Increased automation efficiency |
Predictive Analytics, RPA, Computer Vision, Robotics |
Education | Schools, universities, online tutoring | Personalized learning Automated grading Virtual tutors Predictive analytics for student success |
Enhanced learning experiences Reduced teacher workload Increased student engagement Improved academic outcomes |
NLP tools, Predictive Analytics, Generative AI tools |
Transportation & Logistics | Shipping companies, delivery services, warehouse operators | Autonomous vehicles Route optimization Demand forecasting Warehouse automation |
Faster deliveries Reduced fuel consumption Better resource allocation Efficient warehouse operations |
Predictive Analytics, Computer Vision, RPA, Robotics |
Real Estate | Real estate brokerages, online property platforms | Property valuation Market trend analysis Personalized property recommendations Virtual tours |
Better investment decisions Enhanced client experiences Increased property visibility Faster property discovery |
Predictive Analytics, Generative AI tools, Computer Vision |
Entertainment & Media | Film production companies, streaming platforms, content creators | Content personalization Automated content creation Sentiment analysis Visual effects |
Higher audience engagement Faster content production Improved audience insights High-quality visuals |
Generative AI tools, NLP tools, Predictive Analytics, Computer Vision |
Hospitality | Hotels, resorts, restaurants | Personalized guest experiences Chatbots for customer service Dynamic pricing Automated housekeeping |
Enhanced guest satisfaction Efficient customer interactions Maximized revenue Streamlined operations |
Chatbots, RPA, Predictive Analytics |
Construction | Builders, architects, engineering firms | Project planning and scheduling Site safety monitoring Predictive maintenance for equipment Generative design |
Better project timelines Increased site safety Longer equipment lifespan Innovative building designs |
Predictive Analytics, Computer Vision, RPA, Generative AI tools |
AI in Healthcare
Whereas in other industries it may add convenience, AI use in healthcare has even more transformative potential. For example, it can improve diagnostic accuracy, personalized treatment plans, and predictive analytics for patient care. Studies show that the global AI healthcare market is projected to reach 164.16 billion by 2030 from 14.92 billion in 2024. So it’s safe to say that the next few years will see exponential growth in AI health tech.
AI improves various processes, including the analysis of medical images, which can predict disease outbreaks more quickly and accurately, enhance the development of drug treatments, and better diagnose health conditions. It also addresses operational challenges, such as resource shortages, as it speeds up the entire medical process for both patients and staff. In doing so, health practitioners have more time to provide personalized care in line with patient needs.
Top AI health technology includes Merative, previously called IBM Watson Health, which offers a broad range of benefits within the healthcare industry. It can help diagnose breast cancer in the earlier stages by working collaboratively with existing imaging technology and analyzing mammograms with advanced algorithms. Other tools to help the operational side of healthcare include Regard and DeepScribe, which help to organize patient data and clinical note-taking.
AI in Finance and Accounting
The adoption of AI in finance and accounting is also booming, with Gartner reporting that 58% of finance functions will use AI in 2024. It has various applications, including fraud detection and better expense management. The use of AI helps to enhance efficiency and decision-making while reducing risks of human error, which can be rampant when dealing with numbers.
Robotic Process Automation (RPA) is a key subset of AI tech employed in finance and accounting because it supports the automation of repetitive tasks such as invoice processing, financial forecasting, and transaction categorization. This also helps banks and financial institutions stay compliant with and adapt to the ever-evolving regulatory requirements they face — studies show that AI has seen a 65% adoption rate in banking and finance for compliance purposes.
Popular AI tools include Xero and QuickBooks, which both larger and smaller businesses can use for AI-driven accounting. Other more cybersecurity-focused platforms include Darktrace, which detects ransomware, email phishing, and other attacks that are particularly risky for financial institutions.
For more information, you can take a look at our dedicated guides to generative AI use cases in finance and the use of AI in quantitative finance.
AI in Retail & E-commerce
AI in retail and ecommerce is also making things easier for both buyers and sellers. Within this industry, it’s more about software adopting new AI features rather than full-on additional tools. For example, ecommerce platforms are increasingly supporting personalized shopping experiences, dynamic pricing, and smoother inventory management, which alone has seen a 40% adoption rate.
The main draw of using AI in retail and ecommerce is to improve the shopping experience, which has the knock-on effect of boosting sales and revenue. With AI features, it’s easier to analyze your website visitors’ behavior so you can then recommend products they are more likely to be interested in and send tailored email marketing campaigns. You can also outsource time-consuming tasks such as generating product descriptions or responding to online support requests to AI.
Platforms like Salesforce Commerce Cloud can expertly support online shops with the added AI tools which improve inventory management and broad ecommerce management supported by Einstein AI. CRM tools like HubSpot is another great tool for supporting personalized marketing efforts. For more insight into the developments of AI in retail, you can consult my dedicated guide on AI and retail trends.
AI in Manufacturing
Manufacturing is an industry that often faces unexpected delays and complications. However, AI technologies present significant opportunities for automation, outsourcing, and minimizing human error. According to a report by Deloitte, approximately 93% of companies believe that AI will be a revolutionary advancement in manufacturing, highlighting the industry’s openness to these innovations.
There are several use cases for AI technologies in manufacturing, primarily aimed at improving predictive maintenance, quality control, and supply chain optimization. These advancements address critical challenges that can lead to delays in delivery or extended periods of downtime due to equipment failure. AI-driven solutions help manufacturers to predict equipment failures before they happen and wreak havoc on delivery timelines.
Tools like Uptake and Augury are popular in the industry for monitoring machinery health. Additionally, AI-powered robots are increasingly used to enhance the efficiency of assembly line operations, and AI-driven 3D design tools can simulate prototypes, helping to shorten development cycles. Overall, the integration of AI in supply chain management and manufacturing represents a significant and beneficial advancement.
AI in Education
Now, I’ll return to the impact of AI in the education sector, which is projected to grow at a rate of 36.02% over the next decade. This growth is driven by the demand for more personalized virtual classroom experiences. Although there are valid concerns regarding the excessive use of AI in content generation within education, the positive impact is significant. AI is transforming the way students learn and how teachers instruct, leading to a more inclusive and effective education system.
AI tools are minimizing teachers’ workload by automating grading, generating personalized learning plans, and helping with the quick creation of engaging presentations and teaching materials. With these useful shortcuts, educators can more effectively adapt teaching methods to students with diverse needs and improve learning outcomes. Business Insider recently reported on an interesting case study of a teacher who integrated ChatGPT into the classroom, allowing students to use it for writing essays, which enhanced learning experiences and improved student engagement and writing skills.
Furthermore, our own proprietary research on Techopedia suggests that utilizing AI learning platforms such as Duolingo for personalized learning could be a significant investment for schools, with around 566% ROI (assuming it’s used for 1,000 students, a $12,000 investment saves $80,000).
Some of the most useful tools for teachers include Turnitin, which offers the highly practical functionality of detecting plagiarism in work and can weed out AI-generated submissions. AI presentation generators and design tools like Synthesia, Simplified, and Canva are also highly useful for delivering engaging lessons.
AI in Transportation & Logistics
Transportation and logistics, similar to manufacturing, is a highly time-sensitive industry that can be greatly impacted by unexpected delays and events. This vulnerability stems from its dependence on various unpredictable factors, such as supply chain disruptions, weather conditions, technical failures, and the unavailability of equipment. In the years following the pandemic, the transport and logistics industry has had to expand its operations to meet the heightened demand of online shoppers, a challenge that has been significantly alleviated by advancements in AI technology.
Artificial intelligence can help improve route optimization, demand forecasting, and supply chain transparency, which can greatly enhance operational efficiency. AI-powered tools assist in real-time tracking, warehouse management, and predictive maintenance of vehicles to reduce unexpected downtime caused by vehicles in service.
For example, couriers like FedEx use AI to optimize delivery routes, while platforms such as ClearMetal offer real-time visibility into supply chain issues. Additionally, autonomous vehicles are becoming increasingly popular in logistics. These vehicles can navigate around certain legislative challenges that make their use for transporting people difficult, which helps to lessen the impact of driver shortages.
AI in Real Estate
As a sales and customer-oriented industry, AI can also help realtors provide more personalized service, facilitate property valuation, and predict market trends. With that said, AI adoption is less developed than in more tech-heavy industries. A 2025 Deloitte survey reported that 76% of commercial real estate respondents claimed that their organizations are still either in the early stages of researching or implementing AI processes and solutions.
AI tools can help realtors analyze market trends, forecast property prices, and personalize listings for buyers. Platforms like Zillow use AI to provide accurate property valuations, while chatbots assist agents in managing inquiries and scheduling viewings. Since many realtors work independently, AI tools can help lighten the workload. Where larger brokerages are concerned, AI can help teams take on more clients by speeding up processes, therefore freeing up time and resources.
Some of the tools realtors are already implementing include Compass, which provides AI-driven real estate insights, and another one is OpenDoor, which streamlines the complex process of property transactions.
AI in Entertainment & Media
If you’re a Spotify user, you may have enjoyed receiving your personalized Spotify Wrapped at the end of 2024. This is a great example of how AI is creating more tailored and interactive experiences in entertainment and media. The shift from live TV to streaming services in the 2010s has already significantly impacted how we consume media, and this trend is expected to continue changing in the coming years.
There are three key ways in which AI is showing up in entertainment, with AI tools automating content creation, personalization, and audience engagement. AI enables real-time personalization for users of entertainment platforms, such as Netflix’s recommendation algorithms. An interesting case study on personalization and user engagement: Business Insider reported on how YouTube introduced generative AI tools to assist creators with video ideas. This led to increased content creation efficiency and viewer engagement (and for an investment of $1.1 million, added $50 million of revenue).
AI video and writing generators are bridging the gap between amateur and professional content creators, making it easier than ever to create complete podcasts, videos, and movies. Generative audio-visual tools such as ElevenLabs, Murf AI, and Lovo AI or writing tools like Jasper can be a huge help in supporting your existing talents for content creation.
AI in Hospitality
AI is transforming the hospitality industry by enhancing guest experiences, streamlining operations, and increasing efficiency. Tools like chatbots and virtual concierges offer 24/7 support, while smart systems improve the utilization of resources. However, the adoption of AI in hospitality has been relatively slow, largely due to the lack of immediate necessity. As a result, it often appears more as a luxury that not all businesses can afford, particularly in an industry that has been significantly impacted by the pandemic.
AI-powered platforms can help hospitality professionals by offering personalized recommendations, dynamic pricing, and efficient booking systems. Tools such as Revinate analyze guest feedback to provide valuable insights. Additionally, advanced AI-driven robots can perform tasks like room service and cleaning, enabling staff to concentrate on providing exceptional service to guests.
Chatbots are a huge help in offering virtual concierge services, while SiteMinder is another tool known for its AI-enhanced hotel management solutions. These technologies allow hospitality businesses to create memorable guest experiences. This will strengthen the loyal business-customer relationships that are essential for long-term success in this industry overall.
AI in Construction
As a highly technical industry, construction is also being overhauled by AI to help with project planning, safety, and sustainability. The growing demand for smart and sustainable infrastructure is one key factor driving the increase in AI adoption, in addition to tighter economic challenges and staff shortages within the industry.
AI tools improve risk assessment, monitor construction progress, and optimize resource allocation. For instance, drones equipped with AI analyze site conditions, while platforms like Buildots track project timelines and budgets. Predictive AI tools enhance worker safety by identifying potential hazards in real-time before they become dangerous or cause accidents.
Favored AI tools in the construction industry include Procore for construction project management and SafeAI for autonomous equipment. These solutions help the industry tackle inefficiencies and ensure project success by not getting bogged down with unforeseen delays.
How to Choose AI Tools
With a wealth of options available, finding the right AI tool can feel daunting. Keep these considerations in mind to guide your decision:
- Use Case — Start by identifying your needs and aligning them with the tool’s core functionalities. Do you need it for marketing, writing, customer service, or analytics? Make sure that the tool fits the specific category that meets your goals.
- Budget — Choose a tool that fits your budget but is realistic for the features and benefits offered. Also, be mindful of industry standards for pricing within your use case.
- Ease of Use — Opt for user-friendly tools that match your tech-savviness or that of your team so as to minimize disruptions and training time.
- Compatibility — Make sure that the tool integrates smoothly with your existing software and also check for platform support (e.g., iOS, Android, Windows, etc.).
- Key Features — Focus on tools with a feature set tailored to your primary needs, and avoid paying for fancy extras you won’t use.
- Scope and Scalability — Look for scalable pricing plans that can grow along with your needs. Solutions that become disproportionately expensive as you expand are a red flag as you may have to make a costly switch later down the road.
- Support — Tech doesn’t always run smoothly, so reliable customer support is crucial. Go for tools with responsive teams, detailed documentation, and access to help when needed. Also, check out on which platforms the customer service operates, whether it’s live chat, phone, or email.
How We Test AI Tools
How We Review And Test AI Tools
We base our recommendations on first-hand testing. All the products we feature, have been tested based on the following criteria. For more information, visit our dedicated methodology page on how we test and review AI tools.
- Accuracy & Prompt Interpretation: The accuracy of every AI tool varies and is largely dependent on the AI model used and the quality of the input. We test each tool to gauge its accuracy across the tasks and use cases it supports.
- Performance & Model Architecture: We look at the sophistication of the AI model(s) the tool is based on, and we test how long it takes the AI tool to deliver results and weigh this time against the quality of the output. Quick results mean nothing if the output isn’t accurate, relevant, or what you expected.
- Ethics & Safety: We explore any issues with bias, transparency, and privacy to ensure we recommend only the best artificial intelligence solutions that take these ethical concerns seriously.
- Innovation & Updates: AI is a dynamic, fast-developing space; we look at how well the tools we review are keeping up in terms of how often the improve and update their product.
- User Experience: We test every AI tool on all the supported platforms to gauge its user-friendliness and whether it works as advertised. We also explore any online documentation available.
- Value for Money: We weigh the features, performance, and accuracy of the market’s best AI tools against their cost to determine their value for money. We also factor in the cost to scale with the platform.
- Features & Customization: We test every feature on offer with the service over a two-week period. This includes testing their functionality across all the platforms the tool supports. We also look at the extent to which you can customize, edit, or refine the final output.
- Security: From data privacy to ensuring the tools haven’t had a data breach, we take security seriously, checking their regulatory compliance and how vulnerable the AI models are to exploitation.
Techopedia AI News Bulletin
What’s new in the world of AI tools and technology? See our weekly mini roundup below:
TOP STORY: Can DeepSeek R1 Take On OpenAI o1? Benchmarks Say Yes (Jan 24th 2025)
DeepSeek R1, an open-source AI model launched in January 2025 by China’s DeepSeek, rivals OpenAI’s o1 in performance on tasks like mathematics and coding. With 671 billion parameters and techniques like reinforcement learning, R1 delivers comparable results at a fraction of the cost—$0.14 per million input tokens compared to o1’s $15. Praised for affordability and accessibility, R1 offers a promising alternative in the saturated LLM market.
In earlier news…
- Trump 2.0 First Tech Moves: Innovation or Big Tech Oligarchy? (Jan 23rd 2025)
- Trump Revokes AI Risks Legislation: What the Experts Say (Jan 22nd 2025)
- Why Responsible AI Matters More Than Ever in 2025 (Jan 5th 2025)
- 5 Best AI Agents to Automate Your Workflows in 2025 (Jan 2nd 2025)
AI Trends for 2025: Key Predictions and Impacts
As we move further through 2025, artificial intelligence is set to drive significant transformations across various sectors. Below, I’ve written about five key AI trends anticipated to shape the future. You can also take a look at our article on the key AI statistics shaping 2025.
- AI Becomes Core to Organizational Strategy
The perception of AI is shifting from being something which enables nice-to-have, add-on productivity tools to being a core element of business strategy, driving decision-making and innovation. Companies are restructuring around human-AI collaboration, with platforms like Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud AutoML enabling smarter operations. According to Cisco, 83% of businesses now prioritize AI integration. As AI automates complex tasks, business leaders and employees must adapt and develop new skills in AI management and data analysis. This transformation will redefine roles and create new opportunities in the evolving digital economy.
- AI-Powered Automation Expands Into Complex Roles
AI is advancing beyond handling routine tasks to taking on complex roles requiring reasoning, creativity, and decision-making, such as legal research, medical diagnostics, and financial advising. This shift will automate time-consuming, error-prone tasks, enabling professionals to focus on strategic work. PwC reported that up to 30% of UK jobs, 38% of US jobs, and 35% of jobs in Germany, could be automated by the early 2030s. Tools like IBM Watson will play crucial roles, reshaping industries like law, healthcare, and finance while creating opportunities for AI-enabled expert advisors.
- Rise of Autonomous AI Agents
Autonomous AI agents are revolutionizing business operations by handling tasks like customer support, IT troubleshooting, and sales prospecting with minimal human input. This boosts productivity and cuts operational costs, with platforms like Salesforce Einstein and OpenAI’s AutoGPT leading the charge. A survey by Tidio found that about 60% of business owners believe AI agents can enhance customer experience. As adoption expands, industries such as tech support, logistics, and sales will rely more on AI-driven systems, reducing entry-level roles while creating new opportunities in AI oversight and management.
- AI-Driven Cybersecurity Becomes Essential
As cyberattacks become more advanced, AI-driven cybersecurity is becoming essential for protecting sensitive data and critical systems. AI-powered tools like Darktrace and Microsoft Defender can detect, predict, and mitigate threats in real time, reducing response times and minimizing damage. However, a report from Darktrace revealed that 60% of IT professionals believe their organizations are not prepared to counter AI-generated threats. This highlights the urgent need for businesses, especially in sectors like finance, healthcare, and government, to invest in advanced AI security solutions to stay ahead of evolving cyber risks.
- Personalized AI Assistants for Everyday Life
AI-powered personal assistants like Apple’s Siri, Amazon’s Alexa, and Google Assistant are evolving into proactive life managers, offering personalized recommendations and automating daily tasks such as scheduling, budgeting, and even health monitoring. This transformation will make smart homes more intuitive and digital interactions more seamless. According to Statista, forecasts suggest that by 2025, the number of digital voice assistants will reach 8.4 billion units—surpassing the global population. As adoption grows, consumers and families will experience greater convenience, with AI simplifying routines and enhancing day-to-day productivity.
For more information, take a look at our dedicated page on AI trends to look out for.
The Best AI Courses: Learning About AI
In today’s rapidly developing tech landscape, learning AI has become important for career advancement and future readiness. AI skills are in high demand across industries like healthcare, finance, marketing, and tech, driving innovation and automating complex tasks.
Enrolling in AI training courses can future-proof your career by equipping you with cutting-edge knowledge in machine learning, data science, and AI-driven problem-solving. As businesses increasingly adopt AI, completing reputable AI learning courses can open doors to top-tier jobs, ensuring you stay competitive in a technology-driven world.
- Beginner AI courses: If you’re new to AI, there are many highly-rated courses which provide an excellent starting point, offering accessible content from top institutions. These include IBM’s ‘AI for Everyone – Master the Basics’, DeepLearning.ai’s ‘AI for Everyone’ available via Coursera, and Udacity’s ‘Artificial Intelligence Nanodegree’
- Machine Learning (ML) AI Courses: The best machine learning courses offer in-depth training, helping learners gain the skills needed to excel in AI-driven careers. Some of the current best courses include Stanford University & DeepLearning.ai’s ‘Machine Learning Specialization’ available via Coursea and Udemy’s ‘AI & ML Made Easy: From Basic to Advanced’.
- Generative AI Courses: These highly-rated courses provide expert-led training in generative AI, covering concepts like large language models (LLMs), prompt engineering, and real-world applications. These include Google Cloud’s ‘Introduction to Generative AI’ available via Coursea and DeepLearning.ai’s ‘Generative AI for Everyone’
- Free AI Courses: There are some excellent free courses out there from reputable and renowned institutions, such as IBM’s ‘Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI)’ and ‘AI for Everyone by DeepLearning.AI’
Conclusion: Finding The Best AI Tools
There are no two ways about it: artificial intelligence tools have changed how we live, learn and work forever. Regardless of your opinion on AI — and I’d say it’s becoming increasingly important that you do have an opinion on it — there are many ways it’s changed the world for the better. From streamlining repetitive tasks and boosting our creativity to offering ground-breaking solutions in industries like healthcare, education, and marketing, I feel AI has demonstrated its ability to make us smarter, healthier, more productive humans.
It’s important we have the knowledge to select the right AI tools that help us achieve our goals, and which ensure we use this technology effectively, safely, and ethically. With tens-of-thousands of AI tool options available, thinking carefully about your specific requirements and aligning them with the tool’s features is key to capitalizing on the value AI has to offer. For beginners, starting with the big-name platforms with broad applications, like ChatGPT or Gemini, is a good idea. Later down the line, you may want to explore more specialized, niche, or advanced AI solutions.
The advice I’ll leave you with is that we mustn’t forget the AI revolution is far from over. We should expect these tools to change, evolve, and develop fast. By committing to educating yourself about AI and trying out different tools as they emerge, you’ll maximize the benefit you’ll get from this technology. This, in turn, will likely enhance the quality of your daily life and improve the success in your professional life, too. Just think, the next time you’re faced with a challenge, “is there an AI for this?”
FAQs
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References
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