The Download: what’s next for AI agents, and how Trump protects US tech companies overseas

AI agents is a buzzy term that essentially refers to AI models and algorithms that can not only provide you with information, but take actions on your behalf. Companies like OpenAI and Anthropic have launched ‘agentic’ products that can do things for you like making bookings, filling in forms, and collaborating with you on coding projects.

On a LinkedIn Live event yesterday our editor-in-chief Mat Honan, senior editor for AI Will Douglas Heaven, and senior AI reporter Grace Huckins discussed what’s exciting about agents and where the technology will go next, but also its limitations, and the risks that currently come with adopting it. Check out what they had to say!

And if you’re interested in learning more about AI agents, read our stories:

+ Are we ready to hand AI agents the keys? We’re starting to give AI agents real autonomy, and we’re not prepared for what could happen next. Read the full story.

+ Anthropic’s chief scientist on 4 ways agents will get even better. Read the full story.

+ Cyberattacks by AI agents are coming. Agents could make it easier and cheaper for criminals to hack systems at scale. We need to be ready.

+ When AIs bargain, a less advanced agent could cost you. In AI-to-AI price negotiations, weaker models often lose out—costing users real money and raising concerns about growing digital inequality. Read the full story.

+ There’s been huge hype about a new general AI agent from China called Manus. We put it to the test.

The must-reads

I’ve combed the internet to find you today’s most fun/important/scary/fascinating stories about technology.

1 The Trump administration is seeking to protect US tech firms abroad
It’s using its global trade wars as a way to prevent other countries from imposing new taxes, regulations and tariffs on American tech companies. (WSJ $)
+ Tech firms are increasingly trying to shape US AI policy. (FT $)