Ask HN: Most (Writing) Tools Are AI-Enabled, Not AI-First. What's Still Missing?
Jun 03, 2025 - news.ycombinator.com
The article discusses the limitations of current AI writing tools, which are often seen as mere add-ons rather than being designed around the actual writing process. The author expresses a desire to identify genuine gaps in these tools to address meaningful problems rather than following trends. They seek feedback from frequent writers who use AI tools to understand where these tools disrupt their workflow, what prevents them from using AI more, and what features an ideal AI-first editor should include. The goal is to gather insights on edge cases, pain points, and desired features to create a more effective writing tool.
The author invites writers to share their experiences, including any unique workflows, hacks, or features they wish existed, to help build a writing tool that truly fits the needs and constraints of real-world writing. This feedback is intended to guide the development of AI writing tools that are more integrated and supportive of the writing process, rather than being superficial enhancements.
Key takeaways:
AI writing tools often feel like traditional tools with AI features added, rather than being designed around the actual writing process.
There is a need to identify real gaps in AI writing tools to address meaningful problems rather than following trends.
Feedback from frequent users of AI writing tools is crucial to understand where these tools disrupt workflow and how they can be improved.
There is interest in creating an AI-first editor that addresses current limitations and includes desired features based on real user experiences.
