Every tech lesson with my mom begins the same way: “I didn’t do anything. It just stopped working.” This is usually announced right after Netflix vanishes, the TV input has switched itself (allegedly), and the remote is being held like a TV psychic wand.
So naturally, I decided it was the perfect time to introduce her to Artificial Intelligence aka AI. “Mom,” I said, “this is like having a smart assistant you can talk to—it answers questions, solves problems, and helps you figure things out.” She looked at me, completely unimpressed. “I already have Alexis,” she said.
After a brief pause, I gently explained, “You mean Alexa, and this is different.” Alexa turns on lamps. AI explains why the lamp isn’t working, helps fix your Wi-Fi, suggests what to watch next, and won’t get confused when you ask a full sentence instead of a command.
To use AI on Google, just type your question in the search bar as usual. Google now often shows an AI-generated summary at the top with a clear, quick answer. To get more detailed help without starting a new search, you can also tap the “Search Generative Experience” (SGE) or “AI Overview” when available.
She was skeptical—until Netflix “stopped working” again. This time, instead of calling me immediately, she tried asking AI. And something surprising happened—it helped, calmly, step by step, without sighing or saying, “Mom, we’ve been over this.” Now she’s starting to see the appeal.
Here are five ways AI is actually helping her:
• Fixing everyday tech issues (including Netflix emergencies)
• Simple recipes without complicated instructions
• Writing texts without “Does this sound right?”
• Answering random questions anytime
• Finding shows, books, and things to do
The best part? AI never makes her feel behind. And now, when something “just stops working,” she pauses…
Then still calls me—but at least now she asks AI first.
