The future of AI is moving fast — and at Tom’s Guide, we’re putting the spotlight on the products and services truly shaping what comes next.
The Tom’s Guide AI Awards 2026 are officially open for nominations. If your AI product is changing how people work, create, shop, or live — now’s the time to enter.
Since its arrival just a couple of years ago, AI has quickly become one of the most dynamic and competitive areas of technology. But even though so much is happening so fast, we want to recognize the current standouts in this ever-expanding field.
From breakthrough AI assistants and generative tools to next-gen hardware powered by intelligent features, we’re looking for the products that genuinely move the needle.
Award categories
AI is more than just chatbots, so we're going to be giving out awards across a number of categories. Everything from image generators to robot vacuums and wearables has AI in it, and we want to recognize those companies who make the most effective use of the technology. Below are the categories for which you can enter; we reserve the right to modify these categories based on the submissions.
Core AI & Productivity
- Best AI Model (LLM)
- Best AI Chatbot
- Best AI Search Tool
- Best AI Image Generator
- Best AI Video Generator
- Best AI Writing Assistant
- Best AI Coding Copilot
Personal Tech (Phones, PCs, & Wearables)
- Best AI Smartphone
- Best AI Camera Feature
- Best AI Laptop
- Best AI Tablet
- Best AI Gaming Peripheral
- Best AI PC
- Best AI PC Processor
- Best AI Wearable
- Best AI Smart Glasses
- Best AI Health/Fitness Device
- Best AI Headphones
Smart Home, Appliances & Security
- Best AI Robot Vacuum
- Best AI Smart Appliance
- Best AI Kitchen Gadget
- Best AI Home Hub/Display
- Best AI Smart Thermostat
- Best AI Sleep tech
- Best AI TV feature
- Best AI Security Camera
- Best AI video doorbell
- Best AI Networking/Router
- Best AI Smart Lighting
- Best AI Sleep Tech
Specialty & Future Tech
- AI for Good Award
- Best AI Accessibility Tool
- Most Practical AI Feature of the Year
- Best AI Productivity App (Non-Chatbot)
- Best AI Browser or Agent
- Breakthrough AI Feature of the Year
How to enter
Brands can submit products via our online entry form by selecting the appropriate category and following the “Enter Now” buttons on the awards site.
Entry fee: $250 per product, per category
No limit on submissions and products can be entered into multiple categories (additional $250 per category).
Deadline: March 27, 2026
Category winners will be announced in April.
