AI for Everyone: Exploring the New Frontier in 2025

In December of 2023 I published a blog article titled: How to Use AI Even If You're Not a Tech Expert: A Simple Guide

Much has changed over the past 15 months. I now offer an updated overview of AI literacy and the AI landscape from a layperson's view.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a niche technology. From powering search engines to creating music and art, AI is everywhere. Yet, for many, the world of AI still feels daunting or inaccessible. The good news? You don’t need to be a coder, data scientist, or tech wizard to start using AI. In fact, AI has become more approachable than ever, offering tools and opportunities for anyone willing to explore.

Let’s dive into the latest advancements, the current challenges, and how you can make AI work for you—no tech expertise required.

What’s New in AI?

The past year has been transformative, with groundbreaking advancements redefining what’s possible:

Google NotebookLM Podcast Feature

1. Google NotebookLM’s Podcast Feature: Imagine getting detailed summaries or custom analyses of your favorite podcasts on demand. NotebookLM is transforming the way we engage with content, bridging gaps between information and action.

2. AI-Generated Creativity: Coca-Cola’s AI-driven Christmas commercial showcased how AI can combine art and marketing to create something magical. Similarly, tools like Sora and Veo 2 are pushing boundaries in AI-generated storytelling and art.

3. Search Reinvented with Perplexity: Perplexity.ai blends conversational interfaces with cutting-edge search capabilities, making it a standout alternative to traditional engines like Google.

4. The Rise of Autonomous Agents: Platforms like Claude now empower users to execute tasks requiring computer interaction, from booking appointments to analyzing data—an exciting leap towards full-fledged digital assistants.

5. World Models in Robotics: Advanced AI models now understand the world in ways that expedite the development of autonomous robots, moving us closer to practical, humanlike machines in industries ranging from manufacturing to healthcare.

   
   

The Highs and Lows of AI Tools

Not all advancements have delivered on their promises:

• Microsoft Copilot: Despite its potential, Copilot has struggled to meet expectations, leaving many users underwhelmed by its practical applications.

• Apple’s “Intelligence”: Apple's AI tools still lag behind competitors, offering little innovation compared to Google, OpenAI, or even smaller players.

  
  
  
  
  
  

Why AI Adoption Remains Slow

Despite the hype, AI adoption outside of large enterprises is surprisingly sluggish. Many small businesses, educators, and individuals hesitate due to:

• Lack of AI Literacy: The gap between innovation and understanding is significant. Without proper education, people struggle to see how AI fits into their work and lives.

• Fear of Complexity: Tools often feel overwhelming for beginners, creating a barrier to entry.

We need accessible education and hands-on experiences to bridge these gaps.

Practical Ways to Start Using AI

You don’t have to dive into advanced tools to see the benefits of AI. Here’s how to explore and experiment with today’s most accessible options:

1. Creative Exploration: Use platforms like ChatGPT or Bard to write poems, brainstorm ideas, or even draft blog posts.

2. Learning Assistance: Summarize articles, analyze data, or generate language translations using AI tools like Claude or Bing AI.

3. Hands-Free Productivity: Try out voice-enabled assistants like Siri, Google Assistant, or Alexa for daily tasks and reminders.

Podcasts to Expand Your AI Knowledge

Want to learn more about AI? Podcasts are a great place to start. Here are some recommendations:

• The AI Daily Brief with Nathaniel Whittemore

• This Day in AI

• Next Wave

• All-In

• The Tech Strategy Podcast (particularly for insights into China’s tech landscape)

  
  

AI and the Bigger Picture

Figures like David Sacks continue to shape the conversation around AI adoption, while Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy are leveraging AI in bold ways, with initiatives like the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) aiming to streamline bureaucracy and modernize public systems. This approach exemplifies AI’s potential to optimize even the most complex institutions.

Meanwhile, the DOGE acronym playfully reminds us of Musk’s ability to intertwine humor and technology, engaging audiences in conversations about innovation.

Closing Thoughts: Start Exploring

The key to leveraging AI is curiosity. Don’t wait for perfection—experiment with tools like Perplexity, Claude, or ChatGPT. Take a free online course, join a forum, or simply ask AI to solve a small problem with you.

As AI evolves, we’re reminded of a powerful truth: “AI isn’t coming for your job, but someone who knows how to use AI might be.”