Cluely is an AI-powered desktop assistant designed to provide real-time, undetectable support during virtual interactions such as sales calls, job interviews, and meetings.
It operates by monitoring your screen and audio, delivering contextual suggestions and responses through a concealed overlay that remains invisible to others in the session. The tool integrates with platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet, aiming to assist users in navigating conversations more effectively.
Key Features:
- Real-Time Guidance: Cluely listens to conversations and offers immediate prompts like pitch help, objection handling, and persuasive responses.
- Invisible Interface: Runs as a hidden browser window so no one else on the call can detect it's being used.
- Document Support: Lets users upload documents, which Cluely scans and pulls from to feed relevant info into conversations.
- Follow-Up Automation: After a meeting, it can generate tailored follow-up emails based on the discussion.
Background & Controversy:
Cluely was co-founded by Chungin “Roy” Lee and Neel Shanmugam, both former Columbia University students. The concept evolved from a previous project called Interview Coder, originally built to assist with technical interviews. That tool led to disciplinary actions at Columbia, including Lee’s expulsion.
Despite the backlash, Cluely raised $5.3 million in seed funding from major investors. The startup has marketed itself provocatively, including a launch video where the founder uses Cluely during a date to pretend he’s more experienced and knowledgeable—stirring ethical debate.
Cluely isn’t just another productivity tool—it’s a glimpse into the future of human-computer symbiosis. It represents a new category of AI assistants that go beyond passive help and actually participate in real-time decision-making and communication.
