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What is an AI agent?
An AI agent is software that uses an AI model, instructions, tools, and memory to plan and complete tasks on behalf of a person or team.
Definition
An AI agent is software that uses an AI model, instructions, tools, and memory to plan and complete tasks on behalf of a person or team. AI agents differ from chatbots because they do not stop at generating an answer. A useful business agent can decide which tool to use, fetch live information, update another system, ask for help when needed, and keep running on a schedule.
Key takeaways
- AI agents combine reasoning, tools, memory, and execution.
- A business AI agent can use APIs, browsers, documents, databases, and communication tools.
- The strongest agent workflows are repeatable jobs with clear goals, data sources, and success criteria.
- Twin builds AI agents from natural language, so non-technical teams can automate recurring work without wiring nodes.
How an AI agent works
An AI agent starts with a goal, breaks that goal into steps, selects the right tools, executes each step, evaluates the result, and continues until the work is complete. In a business setting, that might mean searching the web, reading a CRM, drafting an email, updating a spreadsheet, and sending a summary to Slack.
AI agent vs chatbot
A chatbot answers a prompt. An AI agent performs a job. The difference is execution: agents can take actions across software systems, while chatbots usually stay inside the conversation unless a human copies the answer somewhere else.
Examples of AI agents
Common examples include lead research agents, CRM update agents, browser automation agents, support triage agents, recruiting agents, and daily market briefing agents. Each one has a recurring goal and a set of connected tools.
FAQ
What is an AI agent in simple terms?
An AI agent is a software worker that can understand a goal, choose tools, take actions, and report back with completed work.
What makes an AI agent autonomous?
An AI agent is autonomous when it can continue a workflow without step-by-step human prompting, such as running on a schedule, handling errors, and deciding which action to take next.
Can AI agents use business apps?
AI agents can use business apps when they have tool access, API connections, browser automation, or integrations that let them read and write data.