Get connected

The first step: get an AI assistant open on your phone or computer. Find the situation that sounds like you.

I think I might already have one

Great, that's the easiest path. Look for an app or button named Gemini, Copilot, ChatGPT, or Claude. Tap it and you're ready.
I've heard about one and want that one
Maybe a friend raves about ChatGPT, or you keep hearing about Claude. Wonderful, go get that one. Two easy ways:
- On a phone: open the App Store (iPhone) or Play Store (Android), type the name, and tap Install. It's free.
- On any device: open your web browser and go to its website: chatgpt.com, claude.ai, gemini.google.com, or copilot.microsoft.com.
You'll likely create a free account the first time. That's normal and safe.
I have an Android phone

Many Android phones come with Gemini built in. Try pressing and holding the home button at the bottom of the screen, or look for a colorful star-shaped icon named "Gemini."

Don't see it? No problem, use the web browser way below. It works on every phone.
I have an iPhone

iPhones don't come with one of these ready to go. The easiest path is the web browser way below. Open Safari and go to one of the websites. Nothing to install.

If you'd rather have an app, open the App Store and search for ChatGPT (it's free).
I have a Windows computer

Windows computers usually have Copilot built in. Look for it on the bar at the bottom of the screen, or inside the Edge web browser (the blue swirl). You can also use the web browser way below.
I have no idea, just show me the simple way
Perfect. The simplest way that works on anything is to open your web browser (Safari, Chrome, or Edge) and go to one of these free websites. Pick any one, they're all good:
- ChatGPT · chatgpt.com
- Gemini · gemini.google.com
- Copilot · copilot.microsoft.com
- Claude · claude.ai
You may be asked to sign in or create a free account. That's normal and safe.

How do I know it worked? You'll see a box, usually near the bottom, that says something like "Ask anything" or "Message." That box is where you type. You're in!

Should I create an account?

Yes, and it's worth doing even though you're using the free version. Making a free account is the difference between a tool you use once and one that remembers you.

When you're signed in, you get:

Your conversations saved. You can close it, come back tomorrow, and pick up right where you left off.
The same chats on all your devices. Start on your computer, continue on your phone.
The full set of features: voice, sharing photos, and more.

The easy way: when it asks you to sign up, look for "Continue with Google" or "Continue with Apple." If you already use Gmail or an iPhone, that's one tap, with no new password to invent or remember.

An account is free. You only ever pay if you choose to upgrade later, and you don't need to.

Next: How to use it →