Transformative AI Tools You Should Know About
Artificial intelligence is no longer a concept of the future; it has become an integral part of our everyday experiences. From virtual assistants to recommendation systems, AI is profoundly influencing the way we communicate, shop, learn, and create. While widely recognized tools like OpenAI’s ChatGPT and various image generators often capture the headlines, there are numerous lesser-known AI platforms that are quietly transforming productivity and creativity. These tools may not always be in the limelight, but they offer significant benefits. Whether you are a creator, entrepreneur, student, or professional, the following three AI tools can significantly enhance your workflow.
Let’s dive into three underrated AI tools that will surprise you.
1. Gamma – The Future of Presentations
Creating presentations has typically been a time-consuming endeavor. From designing slides to formatting text and sourcing visuals, it can take hours—or even days—to compile a compelling presentation. Gamma revolutionizes this process.
What Makes Gamma Different?
Unlike conventional tools such as Microsoft PowerPoint or Google Slides, Gamma doesn’t start you off with a blank canvas. Instead, you input a simple prompt describing your topic, and the AI promptly generates a structured, aesthetically pleasing presentation.
It does more than just generate bullet points; it:
- Structures content logically
- Automatically designs layouts
- Adds visuals and formatting
- Adapts the tone (formal, creative, minimalist, etc.)
- Converts documents into presentation-ready formats
The outcome? A polished presentation ready in minutes rather than hours.
Why It’s Underrated
Many individuals cling to traditional slide-making methods due to a belief that AI-generated slides will appear generic. Gamma challenges this notion by offering layouts that are modern, clean, and highly versatile.
For startups pitching to investors, students sharing research, or professionals preparing reports, Gamma alleviates design worries, allowing you to focus on your core ideas.
Real-World Impact
Imagine needing a 15-slide investor pitch by tomorrow. Instead of burning the midnight oil, you can describe your business model, and Gamma generates the entire structure within moments. You can then refine it, adjust your branding, and you’re all set. It’s not merely a productivity tool; it boosts your confidence as well.
2. Perplexity AI – Search Reinvented
Most of us rely on traditional search engines regularly, with Google having dominated online searches for years. However, Perplexity AI introduces a refreshing alternative.
What Is Perplexity AI?
Perplexity is an AI-driven search engine that offers direct, conversational answers, complete with cited sources. Rather than presenting a long list of links, it condenses information into a clear, easily digestible explanation.
Think of it as a hybrid between a research assistant and a search engine.
Why It Stands Out
Here’s what sets it apart:
- Provides summarized answers
- Cites credible sources
- Supports follow-up questions
- Maintains conversational context
- Reduces time spent navigating multiple tabs
This greatly accelerates the learning process for researchers, writers, and students alike.
Why It’s Underrated
Despite its capabilities, many users continue to default to traditional search methods, not realizing that Perplexity can:
- Instantly compare complex topics
- Break down technical subjects
- Provide academic references
- Assist in structuring research projects
While many AI tools focus on content creation, Perplexity emphasizes verified knowledge retrieval—a crucial distinction.
Real-World Example
Imagine researching renewable energy trends. Rather than sifting through numerous websites, you ask Perplexity a specific question and receive a well-organized overview with citations in seconds. You can then refine your query for deeper insights, transforming research from a scattered endeavor into a coherent dialogue.
3. Runway – Hollywood-Level Editing in Your Browser
Video editing has traditionally required sophisticated software and technical expertise, with industry-leader Adobe Premiere Pro being particularly daunting for newcomers. Runway aims to change that.
What Is Runway?
Runway is an AI-powered creative suite specifically designed for video editing and visual effects, enabling users to:
- Remove backgrounds from videos
- Generate AI video content
- Erase unwanted objects
- Apply advanced motion tracking
- Create cinematic effects with minimal effort
And the best part? It operates directly in your browser.
Why It’s Game-Changing
Traditional video editing often requires multiple layers, masks, rotoscoping, and hours of meticulous refinement. Runway’s AI automates many of these processes within seconds.
- Removing a person from a moving shot? Just one click.
- Changing backgrounds without the need for green screens? Automatic.
- Generating stylized video sequences? Prompt-based.
This innovation levels the playing field for independent creators.
Why It’s Underrated
While AI art tools may have gained viral popularity, AI video tools like Runway remain underappreciated. Video is one of the most potent forms of communication—be it for YouTube content or marketing campaigns. Runway empowers small teams and solo creators to produce high-quality content that previously required extensive professional equipment.
Real-World Use Case
Consider running a small online brand. Instead of hiring a full production team, you can capture basic footage and enhance it with Runway’s AI tools. What once demanded significant resources can now be completed in a matter of minutes.
Why These Tools Matter More Than You Think
AI is not merely about automating tasks; it amplifies human potential.
- Gamma enhances communication.
- Perplexity enhances understanding.
- Runway enhances creativity.
Each tool simplifies a different phase of the creative and professional process:
- Thinking and researching
- Structuring and presenting
- Producing and editing
Together, they create a powerful enhancement to your workflow, and what makes them particularly impressive is that they require no advanced technical skills—making professional outputs accessible to all.
The Bigger Picture: AI as a Creative Partner
There is often apprehension surrounding artificial intelligence—concerns about automation, job loss, and overreliance. However, tools like these illustrate a more optimistic perspective. They do not substitute human insight; rather, they accelerate it.
You still have the power to:
- Decide on ideas
- Guide the direction
- Exercise judgment
- Add personal creativity
AI simply alleviates the more burdensome tasks. In many ways, these tools serve as intelligent assistants, minimizing repetitive tasks and allowing more time for strategy and creative thought.
Final Thoughts
The AI landscape is advancing at a remarkable pace. While popular tools often capture attention, some of the most powerful innovations are quietly making a significant impact. Gamma redefines presentations, Perplexity AI transforms research, and Runway innovates video creation.
If you haven’t yet explored these tools, now is the ideal time. These underrated AI platforms could fundamentally enhance your workflow—and once you start using them, you might wonder how you ever managed without them. The future of productivity is not just about working harder—it’s about working smarter, with the right AI partner at your side.
