How do I use AI on my mobile phone?

Your smartphone is one of the most convenient places to use AI. Most major AI assistants have free mobile apps, and features such as voice and camera make them even more useful on a phone than on a computer.

Start by installing an official app. Popular choices include ChatGPT by OpenAI, Claude by Anthropic, Gemini by Google, Perplexity, Grok by xAI and Microsoft Copilot. Download them only from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store, and check that the developer name matches the real company. Many fake apps copy these names and logos.

On many Android phones, Gemini is already built in. You can usually open it by holding the power button or saying "Hey Google," depending on your settings. On iPhones, Apple has its own AI features, and you can install any of the other assistants as separate apps.

Mobile apps offer some features that are especially handy:

1. Voice conversations. Tap the voice or headphone icon and simply talk. You can ask questions while cooking, walking or driving (hands-free only), and the AI replies aloud. Many apps understand Hindi and other Indian languages.
2. Camera. Point your camera at something and ask about it: a plant, a product label, a signboard in another language, a homework problem or an error message on your TV.
3. Photo and file uploads. Share screenshots, PDFs or photos of documents directly from your gallery or file manager.
4. Share menu. On many phones, you can select text in any app and share it straight to an AI app for summarising or translating.
5. Widgets and shortcuts. Add an AI app widget to your home screen for quick access.

A few tips make mobile AI more comfortable. Use dictation instead of typing long questions. Sign in with the same account on your phone and computer so your chats are available on both. Turn on notifications only if you want them, since some apps send reminders.

Stay safe on mobile too. Be careful when uploading photos that show ID cards, bank documents or other people's faces. Review the app's permissions and avoid giving access to contacts or location unless a feature truly needs it. And do not use voice mode for sensitive conversations in public places.