Numerous AI tools exist in the public marketplace, but many are not institutionally supported by the university. These tools may be approved for use following a security review.
Before using any technology tool, consider the type of information you plan to share and whether the tool is approved for university use. The benefit of institutionally supported tools include additional privacy, security, and compliance protections that may not be available in publicly available AI services. Review the University of Iowa’s Prohibited Technology List.
If you opt to use a paid AI tool, use a "pay as you go" model when possible. Subscriptions, bulk purchases, or large prepayments may not be allowable on certain funding sources.
Need help finding the right tool?
If you have questions about a tool or how it can be used, contact the Information Technology Services AI Support Team.
University Supported Tools
The university offers AI tools, like Copilot Chat, that are available to faculty, staff, and students.
Select the Right Tool
AI tools can significantly improve efficiency and productivity, but it’s important to match the capabilities of the AI with the needs of your role.
Web/App-Based Tools
| Vendor | AI Tool | Description | Data Security Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adobe | Firefly | Online AI Image generator. | Public level data only. |
| Anthropic | Claude | Online AI chatbot. Text interactions and attachments possible. | Public level data only. |
| Elicit | Elicit | Online AI powered research platform. | Public level data only. |
| Gemini | Online AI chatbot. Multimodal (text, image, voice) interactions possible. | Public level data only. | |
| InflectionAI | Pi | Online AI chatbot. Programmed to be highly conversational. | Public level data only. |
| Microsoft | Copilot - Personal Use | Online AI chatbot. Multimodal (text, image, voice) interactions possible. | Public level data only. |
| OpenAI | ChatGPT (free version) | Online AI chatbot. Text interactions only. | Public level data only. |
| OpenAI | ChatGPT Plus (subscription version) | Online AI chatbot. Multimodal (text, image, voice) interactions possible. | Public and University-Internal. |
| OpenAI | DALL-E 3 | Online AI Image generator. | Public level data only. |
| OpenAI | DeepResearch | Online AI powered research platform | Please contact the security office. |
| Research Rabbit | Research Rabbit | Online AI powered research platform. | Public level data only. |
Multiple Models
Not all models that these tools use are approved for use. Please contact the IT Security Office with questions.
| Vendor | AI Tool | Description | Data Security Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meta | Llama | Large language models created by MetaAI. | Public level data only. |
| Perplexity | Perplexity | Online AI chatbot. Multimodal (text, image, PDF) interactions possible. | Public level data only. |
| Quora | Poe | Online platform that hosts a variety of AI powered bots. | Public level data only. |