AI Connector

Simple Definition

An AI connector links an AI assistant to an outside app, file source, or service, such as Gmail, Google Drive, Slack, Notion, a CRM, or a calendar.

A connector gives AI access to tools or data outside the chat window.

Why It Matters

Connectors make AI far more useful, but they also grant real access to your apps and data. Before turning one on, it is worth checking exactly what it can see and do, reading your files is very different from sending or deleting on your behalf.

Example

A connector lets an AI assistant search your Google Drive files or summarize Slack conversations without you copying and pasting anything.

Related Terms

• AI Automation, connectors are often part of automated workflows
• AI Workflow, connectors feed outside data into workflows
• AI Agent, agents use connectors to act across your apps
• AI Permission Hygiene, managing what connectors are allowed to do
• Related guide: What are MCP connectors