Artificial intelligence is changing how companies help their customers in 2026. AI helpers, sometimes called AI agents, are now doing more work than ever before. These smart computer programs can answer questions, solve problems, and even chat with people just like a real person would. Companies around the world are using AI to make customer service faster and better.

One big change is that AI chatbots can now handle about 85% of customer questions without needing a human to help. This means real workers can focus on harder problems that need a real person. When AI handles the easy stuff, it can reduce what workers have to do by up to 30%. Even better, AI can write summaries of phone calls so quickly that it cuts down worker paperwork by 70%.

But here is something important: customers still want to talk to real people sometimes. Companies are learning that the best service happens when AI and humans work together. If a question is too hard or emotional, the AI hands it off to a real person. This keeps customers happy because they always have help when they need it.

Customers are also expecting more from AI now. They want personalized help that matches what they like and what they bought before. AI is getting better at remembering this information and using it to give better service. About 66% of customers now expect companies to use AI to give them faster, more personal service.

One challenge for companies is making sure their AI and human workers follow the same rules and standards. If AI gives one answer and a human gives a different answer to the same question, customers get confused. Companies are working to make sure both AI and humans are trained the same way and give the same quality help.

Another big thing happening is AI shopping helpers. These are AI agents that help people find products, buy things, and get help after they buy. Retailers are using these AI helpers to make shopping easier and faster. As AI gets smarter and more helpful, companies everywhere are realizing this technology is not going away—it is here to stay and it is changing customer service for good.