Chatbot
1 min read · Reviewed 17 Oct 2026
In short
A conversational interface — and not the same thing as an agent.
In plain English
Software you talk to in messages. A chatbot answers what you ask; it does not go off and do things unless it has been given tools and a goal.
A real example
A support chatbot answers questions about your opening hours. An agent would check the diary, find a slot and book it.
Why it matters
The words are used interchangeably in marketing and they should not be. Buying a 'chatbot' expecting it to take actions is a common and expensive misunderstanding.
