[AIbase Report] The popular writing tool Grammarly has recently launched a new document interface based on the productivity startup Coda, which it acquired last year. This update not only brings a brand-new user experience but also integrates multiple powerful AI assistants and tools, aiming to provide more comprehensive writing support for students and professionals.
The new interface adopts a block-first design philosophy, allowing users to easily insert tables, columns, dividers, lists, and headings, as well as use rich text blocks to highlight key information or add notes and alerts. This design makes document editing more intuitive and efficient.
The core highlights of the new interface include a series of integrated AI tools. A permanent side panel AI assistant helps users summarize text, answer questions, and provide writing suggestions. Additionally, there are several specialized AI tools:
Reader Feedback: Allows users to select a reader role and receive feedback on their writing based on that role.
Grader: Provides feedback on users' writing based on teachers' guidelines and course materials.
Citation Finder: Helps users find and generate citations from public materials.
Paraphraser: Adjusts the tone of the text according to user preferences.
Notably, Grammarly has also added an agent capable of detecting plagiarism and AI-generated content. Luke Behnke, Vice President of Grammarly's enterprise products, told TechCrunch that although AI content detection tools may have limitations, Grammarly has adjusted its agent to be the most accurate version in the market. He emphasized that the purpose of this tool is not to provide a mechanism for teachers to enforce rules, but to allow students to self-check and understand any AI-generated content in their writing before submitting their papers.
Facing the potential contradiction of "helping students write with AI while detecting AI-generated content," Grammarly states that teaching students how to use AI and prepare for future jobs is a "moral obligation." This indicates the company is trying to find a balance between AI-powered writing and academic integrity.
This product upgrade also aligns with Grammarly's ongoing strategy to expand its AI capabilities. In May this year, the company successfully raised $1 billion from General Catalyst for future acquisitions and to strengthen sales and marketing. Last month's acquisition of the email client Superhuman further confirms its intention to deeply integrate more AI agents into its products.
