AI Agent
An AI system that can plan and take multi-step actions toward a goal.
An AI agent is a system that uses a model to plan and carry out multi-step tasks — calling tools, making decisions, and acting toward a goal, rather than just answering a single prompt. Agents can browse, write, and operate software.
Designing for agents means giving users visibility and control over what the agent is doing — step-by-step status, approvals, and the ability to intervene.
Key characteristics
- An AI system that pursues a goal by planning and taking actions, not just replying.
- Uses tools — search, code, APIs — and observes results to decide next steps.
- Operates in a loop: plan, act, observe, repeat until done.
- Powers automation of multi-step tasks beyond single prompts.
Example
Asked to "book the cheapest flight next Friday", an agent searches options, compares prices, and completes the booking through connected tools — handling each step itself.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an AI agent and a chatbot?
A chatbot responds to messages. An agent can plan and execute multi-step tasks using tools, acting on the world to achieve a goal rather than only generating replies.
Are AI agents reliable?
They're improving but can make mistakes across long task chains, so high-stakes actions should include guardrails, confirmations and human oversight.
Need this done, not just defined?
I design and build it — Framer sites, product UI/UX, and more.