What does it mean?
The source argues that an AI assistant needs access to relevant personal context and the ability to use it. Intelligence by itself may not be enough if the user must repeatedly explain what the system could have learned from available information. Permissions and scope still matter.
Make it concrete.
Imagine asking an assistant to find a restaurant a family member recommended. With access to the relevant messages, it could locate the recommendation without requiring the person to search manually.
A common mistake.
Assuming model intelligence can compensate for information that the assistant is not permitted to access.
When should you use it?
When designing cross-app assistants, smart reminders, or experiences that depend on personal information.
Why keep this thought?
Appropriate context can reduce effort while making an assistant genuinely helpful.
Explore the source.
Nielsen Norman Group — The New Siri’s Biggest Strength Is Not Intelligence ↗An editorial interpretation of the linked source, not a direct quotation or endorsement.