Simon Willison's updated guide to AI tools for practical tasks

On July 27, 2026, Simon Willison released a subjective guide detailing which AI tools to utilize for specific tasks, highlighting the swift advancements in the sector. A year prior, attention was directed toward chat-oriented models such as ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini, with top contenders including o3, Claude 4 Opus, and Gemini 2.5 Pro, while Deep Research served as a valuable alternative. Currently, the focus has transitioned to agentic systems that can accomplish extensive human tasks in a single session. Gemini has been removed from Willison's recommendations due to Google's absence of a strong entry in the Codex/ChatGPT Work/Cowork category, and Gemini Spark's lack of validation. He outlines how to enable computer access for ChatGPT and Claude: 'Work' mode for ChatGPT and 'Cowork' mode for Claude. The optimal method involves downloading the desktop applications and choosing these modes, allowing AI to manage the computer. ChatGPT features two agent modes: Work and Codex, while Claude offers Cowork and Code, though the naming can be perplexing. Willison also points out that ChatGPT Work functions differently on mobile compared to desktop; on desktop, it serves as a less daunting interface for Codex, whereas on mobile, switching from 'Chat' to 'Work' mode grants the Code Interpreter container internet access.