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
AI has quickly become the backbone of modern productivity, reshaping everything from how we write emails to how we manage our time. The best tools don’t just speed things up — they fundamentally change how we approach work while helping us focus, prioritize and make better decisions with less effort.
In this category, we’re highlighting the AI tools that actually deliver on that promise. Whether it’s streamlining your workflow, eliminating repetitive tasks or unlocking new ways to think and create, these are the products setting a new standard for workflow.
Here are the eligible subcategories for Core AI & Productivity:
- AI Model (LLM)
- AI Chatbot
- AI Search Tool
- AI Image Generator
- AI Video Generator
- AI Writing Assistant
- AI Coding Copilot
Personal Tech
AI is quickly becoming part of the devices we use most as they are the foundation in which they work. From smarter smartphones to more responsive wearables and home devices, personal tech is evolving to anticipate needs, simplify routines and fit more naturally into everyday life.
In this category, we’re highlighting the products that get that balance right. These are the devices that don’t just add AI for the sake of it, but use it in ways that are genuinely helpful — whether that’s saving time, improving convenience or making technology feel a little more human.
Here are the eligible subcategories for Personal Tech:
- AI Smartphone
- AI Camera Feature
- AI Laptop
- AI Tablet
- AI Gaming Peripheral
- AI PC
- AI PC Processor
- AI Wearable
- AI Smart Glasses
- AI Health/Fitness Device
- AI Headphones
Smart Home, Appliances & Security
AI is making the modern home smarter, safer and more efficient — often in ways you don’t even notice. From appliances that learn your routines to security systems that respond in real time, today’s smart home tech is designed to reduce effort while increasing control.
In this category, we’re highlighting the products that truly deliver on that promise. Whether it’s saving energy, simplifying daily tasks or helping you feel more secure, these are the devices that make your home work better for you.
Here are the eligible subcategories for Smart Home, Appliances and Security:
- AI Robot Vacuum
- AI Smart Appliance
- AI Kitchen Gadget
- AI Home Hub/Display
- AI Smart Thermostat
- AI Sleep tech
- AI TV feature
- AI Security Camera
- AI video doorbell
- AI Networking/Router
- AI Smart Lighting
- AI Sleep Tech
Specialty & Future Tech
Not every great AI product fits neatly into a category — and that’s why this one exists. Some of the most exciting innovations are the ones that feel a little ahead of their time, introducing new ways to interact with technology that haven’t fully gone mainstream yet.
This section highlights the ideas pushing AI forward. Whether it’s experimental, unexpected or redefining what’s possible, these are the products giving us an early look at where AI is headed next — and why it matters.
Here are the eligible subcategories for Specialty and Future Tech:
- AI for Good
- AI Accessibility Tool
- Practical AI Feature
- AI Productivity App (Non-Chatbot)
- AI Browser or Agent
- Breakthrough AI Feature
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: April 2, 2026
Category winners will be announced at the end of the month.
