AI Agents vs. Agentic AI: Understanding the Critical Differences

Ryan Frederick | July 30th, 2025 | Dublin, OH

In the realm of artificial intelligence, the terms "AI agents" and "agentic AI" are often used interchangeably, creating confusion for many. However, discerning their differences is vital for businesses seeking to harness AI effectively.

AI Agents, such as chatbots and virtual assistants, are tailored AI systems engineered to autonomously execute tasks with precision. They function within set parameters, relying on explicit rules, programmed behaviors, and machine learning models to excel in well-defined, repetitive tasks.

On the contrary, Agentic AI embodies a higher level of autonomy, decision-making prowess, and goal-oriented behavior. These systems exhibit proactive adaptation to dynamic environments, pursuing broader objectives that evolve over time. Capable of independent reasoning and strategizing, agentic AI learns from interactions, adjusts approaches, and operates beyond predefined instructions.

Key Contrasts:
Scope: AI agents operate within defined boundaries; agentic AI dynamically broadens its scope.
Autonomy: AI agents adhere to protocols; agentic AI formulates strategies and adjusts goals.
Adaptability: AI agents are task-centric; agentic AI continually learns and adapts to novel scenarios.

Understanding this disparity empowers businesses to strategically deploy AI solutions. Utilize AI agents for streamlined efficiency in routine tasks, while embracing agentic AI to drive innovation, adaptability, and transformation in complex operations and decision-making processes.

Ryan Frederick

Ryan Frederick is a seasoned entrepreneur, author, speaker, and investor, renowned for his expertise at the intersection of technology and its profound effects on global economics, politics, labor, and society. As a Principal at Transform Labs, a technology advising firm, Ryan leverages his extensive background technology and business strategy to assist organizations in navigating the complexities of a new era of immense technical automation.

With a career that began in software development, Ryan possesses a unique blend of technical proficiency and business insight. This combination has enabled him to successfully establish and expand multiple companies, providing him with firsthand experience in the challenges and opportunities presented by technological innovation. His entrepreneurial journey has also led him to become an active angel investor and a mentor to startups and corporate innovation leaders, further solidifying his role as a catalyst for technological advancement in the business world.

Ryan is the author of two influential books: "The Founder's Manual: A Guidebook for Becoming a Successful Entrepreneur," which offers insights into product creation and company building, and "Sell Naked: And Other Advice for Growing and Managing Services Firms," focusing on strategies for service-based businesses.

As a thought leader and speaker, Ryan frequently shares his perspectives on how emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, are reshaping various facets of society. In his writings, he discusses the macro-level changes driven by AI, including its impact on economic models, labor dynamics, and geopolitical stability. Ryan emphasizes that the rapid adoption of AI and automation necessitates a reevaluation of traditional economic structures and poses both challenges and opportunities for global societies.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Ryan is committed to workforce development and social impact. He founded i.c.stars, a non-profit program dedicated to training under-employed adults in digital skills, demonstrating his dedication to bridging the digital divide and fostering inclusive growth in the tech industry.

Ryan's deep understanding of the interplay between technology and societal structures, combined with his practical experience in business and innovation, positions him as a compelling speaker on the transformative effects of technology on global economics, politics, labor, and society.