Plain language: An AI system that can take actions on your behalf, such as searching the web, sending emails and booking appointments, with varying degrees of independence.

Technical: An autonomous or semi-autonomous computational system capable of perceiving its environment, making decisions based on defined objectives, and executing multi-step actions. Agents may operate with a human in the loop or with minimal supervision, depending on design.

Misconception: AI agents are independent entities pursuing their own goals and will eventually act against human interests. They operate within parameters set by developers and users and do not have self-determined objectives.

Real-world example: An AI agent that checks your calendar, identifies a free slot, drafts a meeting invitation and sends it, completing a multi-step task without requiring you to do each step manually.

Related terms: AI · Generative AI · Assistive AI