What is Generative AI? Simple Explanation (2026)
AI Glossary
What is Generative AI?
Definition: Generative AI refers to AI systems that can create new content — text, images, video, music, and code — rather than just analyzing existing data. It’s the technology behind ChatGPT, Midjourney, and other creative AI tools.
How Does Generative AI Work?
Generative AI uses deep learning models (transformers for text, diffusion models for images) trained on large datasets. These models learn patterns and can generate novel outputs that follow those patterns. The ‘generative’ part means creating new content, not just classifying or analyzing.
Examples
Text: ChatGPT, Claude. Images: Midjourney, DALL-E. Video: Sora, Runway. Music: Suno, Udio. Code: GitHub Copilot, Cursor.
Related Reading
Learn more about how Generative AI is used in practice:
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