The rise of AI is revolutionizing how we work, search, and create. Among the tools leading this transformation is You.com, a conversational AI platform that goes far beyond basic queries. It combines personalized, privacy-focused solutions with the power of multiple large language models and task automation through user-friendly agents.

Whether you’re tackling complex research, streamlining productivity, or solving problems, You.com is built to elevate your workflow. If you’ve used OpenAI’s ChatGPT Search, consider You.com a significant upgrade. Let’s explore what makes it unique and how it can help you stay ahead.

Research, AI Agents, and Automation with You.com

You may already have tried OpenAI’s ChatGPT Search.

It’s not bad, but it’s not that good.

It probably will be someday, but until then, I’d check out You.com.

You.com is a conversational AI platform designed to enhance productivity by integrating customizable AI Agents, built-in tools, and a privacy-first approach. It takes search beyond the basics, empowering users to tackle comprehensive research, solve complex problems, and create personalized content.

Companies can use a platform to share these agents across teams.

This is precisely what I am doing when we research new topics for this newsletter.

Benefits of You.com

You.com takes a different approach to privacy from conventional search engines. There's no user tracking or data profiling involved. Searches remain private, and user activity isn't monitored or stored. This represents a fundamental shift from standard search engine practices.

The Built-in Tools feature streamlines everyday tasks. Instead of switching between applications, users access coding tools, text summarization, and other utilities directly through the search interface. This integration reduces the need for multiple platforms or browser tabs.

You.com uses a clean design that prioritizes functionality. The layout is intuitive, requiring minimal adjustment for new users. All features remain accessible without complicated menus or settings.

Easy-to-Use AI Search Agents

If you have created a CustomGPT with OpenAI, you will probably be comfortable making an AI agent with You.com. The interface is similar, but what is different is that you can manage sources differently, adding both local knowledge and links to up to 10 web sources to inform your research.

Once set up, you can start your research process by creating an AI agent with sources. I usually use ChatGPT to create a list of the criteria for my instructions.

Usually, I start with a role, an objective, and then the criteria. I like adding some sources I like, including my own set of newsletters. You may want to use your company website if you are researching topics related to your topic.

Here are some sample instructions you could use in a You.com Agent:

Role: You are an AI search agent tasked with compiling a list of the best free AI courses for knowledge workers.

Objective: Identify and list top-quality, free online AI courses that help knowledge workers enhance their understanding and application of artificial intelligence in their professional roles.

Criteria:

Relevance:

Courses should cover AI concepts applicable to knowledge workers, such as machine learning fundamentals, data analysis, AI in business strategy, and practical AI tools.
Quality:

Prioritize courses offered by reputable institutions, universities, or recognized online learning platforms.
Look for courses with positive reviews or high enrollment numbers as indicators of quality.
Accessibility:

Courses must be completely free to access.
Should be available online without geographical restrictions.
Level of Difficulty:

Suitable for beginners to intermediate learners.
Minimal prerequisites required; accessible to those without a technical background.
Course Format:

Prefer courses that offer flexible learning schedules (e.g., self-paced).
Include various formats like video lectures, interactive modules, or downloadable resources.
Certification:

If possible, include courses that offer a free certificate of completion to add value for the learner.
Updated Content:

Ensure the courses are up-to-date with the latest AI trends and technologies.
Language:

Courses should be in English or offer English subtitles to cater to a wide audience.Examples of AI-Powered Market Research and Competitive Analysis

I have now added some sources: I used deeplearning.com and coursera.com, but you should use the ones that work for you.

Finally, since this is a recurring task, I created the outcome example and uploaded the example as a PDF. This gives guidance on how the desired examples of the outcome I wanted.

Example Uses for You.com

You.com's advanced AI capabilities and real-time web access make it an excellent tool for conducting in-depth market research and competitive analysis across all business types.

• Startups: Leverage You.com's AI-driven insights to quickly understand market trends, consumer behavior, and competitor activities. This can help startups refine their products and strategies in rapidly evolving markets.

• SMEs: Utilize You.com's comprehensive research capabilities to gain valuable data on market trends and consumer preferences, helping SMEs identify growth opportunities and stay competitive.

• Large Corporations: Employ You.com's ability to analyze up to 200 sources per query to conduct extensive market research, supporting global market strategies and helping maintain a competitive edge in diverse markets.

Inquisite, Your Trustworthy Research Assistant

Along the same thread, I am currently looking at Inquisite, a product developed by two Duke University faculty members, my friends Jon Reifschneider and Dr. Pramod Singh. They are trying to solve the problem of writing research with trustworthy sources, especially when doing academic research.

I’ve been playing with the interface, and I like the Trust Score, which rates the academic worthiness of the sources. This is the differentiator, if they nail the trustworthy sources then I don’t have to add sources as I did in the You.com agent. Plus it gives you a quick barometer of the worthiness of new sources without having to vet them.

In a world where data privacy and productivity often clash, You.com offers the perfect balance. With its privacy-first design, integrated tools, and customizable AI agents, it’s a versatile choice for researchers, professionals, and businesses. Meanwhile, Inquisite takes research to the next level with its Trust Score system, ensuring reliable and credible results. Together, they make search and research faster, smarter, and more efficient. Try them both and see how they transform your productivity!

We’d love to hear your feedback. Let us know if this lesson was helpful. Drop us a note at [email protected], and stay tuned for more AI insights!