AI helped me choose a folding phone, rethink a router upgrade, and contact RV repair shops

I was firmly against folding phones, I don't want networking to become a hobby, and I'd rather text an RV repair business than call it. AI helped me work through all three. I also found out that a prepared email isn't necessarily a sent one.

AI helped me decide whether a folding phone was actually right for me

A fading phone battery sent me looking at upgrades, including a folding phone I had been firmly against. I gave ChatGPT the offers and my bill, talked through my concerns, and compared what would actually matter to me. I bought the Fold and a new watch after a store visit; setup is still underway.

What I got out of it: I chose a phone I hadn't expected to want and a watch that feels like a real upgrade.

Why AI was useful: It helped compare the offers and devices using context it already had about how I use my phone, then helped me find settings during setup.

AI helped me choose a router without becoming a network person

With fiber installations expected to start in December, I asked ChatGPT about replacing our Eero mesh. It liked the Pro. I pointed out that there are two people in this house and many of our connected devices are light bulbs. After comparing what we'd actually use, I chose the cheaper option. I haven't bought it yet.

What I got out of it: A router choice I understand and feel better about, without paying extra for capacity I don't expect us to need.

Why AI was useful: I could work through the differences conversationally, but my pushback about our actual household was what brought the recommendation back to our needs.

I used two AIs to contact RV repair shops—and still had to check Drafts

I used Gemini to find local help for our RV's furnace and generator, then ChatGPT's existing diagnostic context to make the messages specific. Gemini sent texts, I used a contact form, and one person replied by text. I thought the emails had gone too. A later check found three still in Drafts, so I sent them myself.

What I got out of it: Repair enquiries by text, form and email, with one text reply so far. I'm working toward getting the RV repaired before our December trip.

Why AI was useful: It found providers and helped explain the actual symptoms without making me write every enquiry from scratch. I still had to verify that the emails were sent.