Artificial intelligence is moving beyond chatbots. In 2026, a new wave called “agentic AI” is changing how people buy products, manage tasks, and make decisions online. Instead of only answering questions, AI assistants can now act on your behalf. They can compare prices, place orders, book services, and even negotiate deals.
This shift could reshape online shopping, banking, travel, and everyday digital tasks. Tech companies are racing to build smarter AI agents that can complete real-world actions without constant human input.
What Is Agentic AI?
Agentic AI refers to artificial intelligence systems that can take independent actions to complete a goal. Unlike traditional AI chatbots, which only respond to prompts, agentic AI can plan steps, make decisions, and execute tasks across multiple platforms.
For example, instead of asking a chatbot, “Which phone should I buy?”, you can tell an AI agent: “Find the best phone under ₹30,000, compare prices, and place the order.” The AI agent can search multiple websites, compare specifications, check user reviews, find the lowest price, and complete the purchase with minimal human involvement.
How Agentic AI Works
Agentic AI combines several technologies into one system. It uses large language models to understand instructions written in normal language. It also relies on task planning systems that break a large goal into smaller steps.
The AI agent connects with apps, websites, or services to perform actions. It then uses decision-making logic to evaluate options and choose the best outcome. Together, these parts allow the AI to act like a digital assistant that does more than just talk.
What Can Agentic AI Do in 2026?
By early 2026, agentic AI is already being used in several real-world tasks.
Online Shopping
AI agents can compare prices across platforms, apply coupons automatically, check delivery times, and place orders. Some systems can even contact sellers or service providers to request discounts, helping users get better deals without manual effort.
Travel Planning
Instead of booking each step yourself, you can simply say, “Plan a 4-day trip to Goa under ₹25,000.” The AI agent can find flights or trains, compare hotel prices, create a day-by-day plan, and complete the bookings. This reduces the time and effort needed for trip planning.
Bill Payments and Subscriptions
AI assistants can track monthly bills, cancel unused subscriptions, switch to cheaper plans, and negotiate better offers with service providers. This helps users manage recurring expenses more efficiently.
Customer Support
Some companies now use AI agents to handle service requests. These agents can file complaints, track refunds, and escalate issues automatically, reducing wait times and manual follow-ups.
Why Big Tech Is Investing in Agentic AI
Major technology companies are focusing on agent-based AI as the next stage of digital assistants. The goal is simple: move from “AI that answers” to “AI that acts.”
This shift is happening because users want faster results instead of long conversations. Online services are becoming more complex, and automation can save both time and money. In 2026, AI agents are being built into smartphones, web browsers, messaging apps, and enterprise software.
How Agentic AI Is Different from Chatbots
The biggest difference is action. Traditional chatbots mainly answer questions and provide information. Agentic AI, on the other hand, can complete tasks on behalf of the user.
Chatbots usually have limited decision-making ability and minimal integration with apps. Agentic AI offers deeper integration, advanced decision-making, and the ability to perform real-world actions. In simple terms, chatbots talk, while agentic AI works.
Benefits for Everyday Users
Agentic AI could save time and reduce digital stress. Routine actions like booking tickets or paying bills can be automated, making everyday tasks faster. AI agents can scan multiple platforms to find better deals and even negotiate prices.
These systems also learn user preferences over time, which helps them make more personalised suggestions. As a result, users may no longer need to open several apps to complete simple tasks, reducing screen time.
Risks and Concerns Around Agentic AI
Despite the benefits, experts are warning about potential risks. AI agents may need access to payment details, personal accounts, and shopping history, which creates new security and privacy challenges.
There is also the risk of wrong decisions. If the AI misunderstands instructions, it may buy the wrong product, book incorrect dates, or choose poor deals. Over-automation is another concern, as too much reliance on AI could reduce human control over important decisions.
How Agentic AI Could Change the Indian Market
India is expected to be a major market for agent-based AI services. The country has over 750 million smartphone users, rapid growth in digital payments, strong adoption of online shopping, and increasing use of AI-powered apps.
In India, agentic AI could be used for booking train and bus tickets, comparing grocery prices, managing UPI payments, and finding the best mobile plans. For small businesses, AI agents may help manage customer queries, automate marketing, and track inventory more efficiently.
Industries Likely to Be Impacted First
Some sectors are expected to see early changes. E-commerce may see reduced manual price comparison as AI agents handle it automatically. In banking and finance, agents may manage bill payments, investment tracking, and loan comparisons.
Travel and hospitality may experience automated trip planning, reducing the need for traditional travel agents. Telecom and subscription-based services could also change, as AI agents negotiate cheaper plans on behalf of users.
When Will Agentic AI Become Common?
Early versions are already available in 2026, but mass adoption may take time. Experts expect wider consumer use by 2027–2028, with strong adoption in business software even earlier. The technology will gradually roll out across smartphones and operating systems.
The speed of adoption will depend on security improvements, government regulations, and user trust in AI systems.
What Users Should Do Before Using AI Agents
Experts suggest a few basic precautions. Users should start with small, low-risk tasks and carefully check the permissions given to AI agents. It is also important to review purchases before final confirmation and use trusted platforms only. These steps can help avoid unwanted actions or financial losses.
The Bottom Line
Agentic AI marks a major shift in how people interact with technology. Instead of just asking questions, users can now assign tasks to AI assistants and let them handle the work.
From shopping and travel to bill payments and negotiations, AI agents could become a daily tool for millions of people in the coming years. In 2026, the age of AI that acts—not just talks—has officially begun. If the technology proves secure and reliable, agentic AI could become as common as smartphones and digital payments in the near future.
Disclaimer: The information presented in this article is intended for general informational purposes only. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, completeness, and timeliness, data such as prices, market figures, government notifications, weather updates, holiday announcements, and public advisories are subject to change and may vary based on location and official revisions. Readers are strongly encouraged to verify details from relevant official sources before making financial, investment, career, travel, or personal decisions. This publication does not provide financial, investment, legal, or professional advice and shall not be held liable for any losses, damages, or actions taken in reliance on the information provided.
Last Updated on: Monday, February 9, 2026 2:40 pm by Digital Herald Team | Published by: Digital Herald Team on Monday, February 9, 2026 2:40 pm | News Categories: News