Leveraging AI Chatbots on X: A Developer’s Guide to @Grok and @AskPerplexity

As a tech enthusiast who spends considerable time troubleshooting code and system issues, I’ve been exploring the AI chatbots available on X (formerly Twitter). Based on recent research, there are currently two primary active AI chatbots that respond to users on the platform: @Grok and @AskPerplexity. Let me share how these tools can be valuable for developers and sysadmins.

The Current AI Chatbot Landscape on X

According to comprehensive research as of March 2025, only two major AI chatbots are actively responding to users on X:

  • @Grok: Developed by xAI, integrated directly into X’s platform
  • @AskPerplexity: Powered by Perplexity AI, known for detailed responses

While other options like @AskAnythingChat and @ChatWithAI have been mentioned, they appear to be inactive based on recent reports.

How to Use These Chatbots for Technical Questions

@Grok: Quick Developer Solutions

@Grok is particularly useful for quick coding queries and sysadmin troubleshooting. To use it:

  1. Simply mention @Grok in your tweet or reply
  2. Ask your technical question clearly and concisely
  3. Wait for a response (usually quite fast)

Example query:

@Grok What's the most efficient way to handle concurrent file operations in Golang?

Example sysadmin query:

@Grok How can I troubleshoot high CPU usage on a Linux server running Docker containers?

The chatbot often includes a touch of humor in its responses while providing useful information. Since December 2024, it’s been free for all users, with premium features available for subscribers.

@AskPerplexity: Detailed Technical Explanations

If you need more comprehensive answers with references, @AskPerplexity is your go-to option:

  1. Mention @AskPerplexity in your post
  2. Frame your technical question (can be more detailed than with Grok)
  3. Expect a thorough response, often with citations

Example development query:

@AskPerplexity What are the pros and cons of using Python decorators versus middleware for authorization in Flask applications?

Example shell scripting query:

@AskPerplexity Can you explain the difference between process substitution and command substitution in Bash, with examples of when to use each?

Real-World Applications for Developers

These chatbots shine in several scenarios that developers and sysadmins frequently encounter:

  1. Quick syntax reminders: When you can’t remember that specific command flag or function parameter
  2. Error troubleshooting: Paste error messages to get potential solutions
  3. Architecture decisions: Get pros and cons for different approaches
  4. Learning resources: Ask for recommended documentation or tutorials
  5. Code reviews: Get a second opinion on small code snippets

Limitations to Keep in Mind

While these tools are helpful, remember:

  • They work best with concise, clearly formulated questions
  • For extensive code reviews or complex debugging, traditional tools are still more appropriate
  • Always verify critical information, especially for production environments
  • Response quality can vary based on the complexity of your query

Conclusion

As a developer who works primarily with Golang, Python, and shell scripts, I’ve found both @Grok and @AskPerplexity to be valuable additions to my toolkit. They’re particularly useful during those moments when you need a quick second opinion or when you’re stuck on a problem and need a fresh perspective.

For more information on the current state of AI chatbots on X, check out in-depth analyses from ZDNET, Zapier, and PCMag.

Have you tried using these AI chatbots for development questions? Share your experiences in the comments below!

Note: This blog post is based on research about AI chatbots on X as of March 2025. The functionality and availability of these services may change over time.