In recent years, generative AI has been one of the most talked-about topics worldwide. The launch of ChatGPT (OpenAI), Gemini (Google), Copilot (Microsoft) , and more recently, the Chinese DeepSeek (DeepSeek), has awakened the world to the enormous potential of artificial intelligence. Now, AI Agents represent the evolution of this technology, especially in terms of intelligent automation. But in a Generative AI vs AI Agents duel (like Pipefy’s), what are the differences between them? And how is each applied?
What is Generative AI?
Generative AI is an artificial intelligence model capable of creating content based on pre-existing content. Using deep learning models (neural networks and LLMs), it can “understand” a colossal volume of data (online or offline). As a result, this AI generates texts, videos, images, music, presentations, programming codes, and countless other materials from simple commands—also known as prompts.
What are AI Agents?
They are software programs that interact with their environment autonomously, collecting data and using it to perform self-determined tasks to achieve predetermined goals. Generally, a user sets the objective, but the AI Agent decides how to achieve it, selecting the best actions and automating various processes along the way. For a practical example: an AI Agent working in customer service for an insurance company can ask the claimant several questions when activated and, based on the answers, search the company’s database and formulate a response to the customer’s query.
Generative AI vs AI Agents: What are the differences between them?
- Generative AI is capable of creating original content by using deep learning to understand patterns and generate new materials. Additionally, it does not have its own “will” and relies on user prompts to deliver what is needed. This model can also be useful for creating designs, prototypes, and even scripts, freeing professionals to focus on more strategic tasks.
- On the other hand, AI Agents work differently. They have the autonomy to perform tasks and make decisions. Moreover, they can interact with systems and users without relying on commands from the latter. They can also be integrated with various technologies, including Generative AI itself, as well as automation and machine learning. Among the advantages of this model are intelligent automation for complex tasks, user experience personalization, and process optimization, improving efficiency and productivity for companies across various sectors.
Generative AI vs AI Agents: What are the applications of each?
- Generative AI can be applied in various areas: this includes creating digital content (texts, videos, music, presentations), Design and Art (images for advertising campaigns and announcements), programming (generating codes and automation commands for software development), and Education (summaries of diverse content, including educational materials).
- AI Agents, on the other hand, can be used in customer service as chatbots and/or virtual assistants for retail, service, and banking companies, for example. In sectors like Finance and Insurance, they can reduce friction, monitor fraud, analyze credit, identify fake documents, create risk scores, and much more. In IT and Automation, AI Agents play a significant role in automated support and infrastructure management. Lastly, in e-commerce, they can generate customized recommendations for customers and provide automated support for frequently asked questions.
Read more:
- How AI Agents can optimize sales processes
- How to choose an AI Agent for your company?
- AI Agents: boost productivity and reduce costs in your company
Generative AI vs AI Agents: Can they converge?
The answer is yes. Although different, Generative AI and AI Agents can complement each other. For example, an AI Agent can use Generative AI to create personalized content for each user or to generate new ideas and solutions for complex problems.
The combination of these technologies opens up a range of possibilities for the future of AI, from creating smarter and more personalized virtual assistants to automating complex tasks across various sectors.
If your company wants to enjoy all the advantages of process automation brought by AI Agents, book a free Pipefy demo and discover how this technology can transform your operations.
