How to Use AI on Your Phone

Most new phones come with AI built in. You can talk to it, point your camera at things, fix photos, and get help writing, often without installing anything.

The best AI tool is the one already in your pocket. Learn it before you download ten more.

• iOS 27, released in September 2026, brings a redesigned Siri powered by Apple Intelligence, which now uses Google’s Gemini models
• Writing Tools to proofread, rewrite, and summarize in almost any app
• Visual Intelligence to learn about what your camera sees
• AI photo cleanup and editing in the Photos app
• Apple Intelligence needs an iPhone 15 Pro or newer

Some new Siri features may be labelled beta or roll out gradually. Check Settings, then Apple Intelligence & Siri.

• Gemini is the built-in assistant on most Android phones
• Gemini Live for natural voice conversations, including sharing your camera or screen
• Circle to Search: circle anything on screen to search it
• Gemini Intelligence on newer phones such as the Pixel 10 and Galaxy S26 can automate tasks across apps

ChatGPT

All-round help, voice mode, and image creation

Claude

Writing, thinking through problems, and long documents

Gemini

Also on iPhone, with Google app connections

Perplexity

Answers with sources for research

Start with one. Install only official apps from the App Store or Google Play.

• Use voice mode when walking, cooking, or driving hands-free
• Ask follow-up questions like a normal conversation
• Practice a language or rehearse an interview out loud

• Translate signs and menus
• Identify plants, landmarks, and products
• Scan a document and ask for a summary
• Point at a broken appliance and ask what to check

Rewrite this message so it is friendly but firm, and under 50 words: [paste].

• Fix tone in emails and texts
• Turn voice notes into clean to-do lists
• Summarize long group chats or articles

• Plan meals and build a shopping list
• Draft a day plan from your calendar
• Get step-by-step help with a recipe or repair
• Explain a bill, a letter, or a medical leaflet in plain words, then check with a professional

• Review which apps can use your microphone, camera, and photos
• Check each AI app’s data and training settings
• Turn off chat history in apps that offer it if you prefer
• Do not share passwords, ID numbers, or bank details with any chatbot

• Voice and camera AI use more battery and mobile data
• Download on Wi-Fi where possible
• Some features run on the phone itself, which helps privacy and works offline

• Be wary of calls or voice notes that sound like family asking for money
• Agree a family code word for emergencies
• Ignore apps that copy famous AI brands
• Never pay for “free” AI features through links in messages