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What is Cursor (the AI code editor)?
Cursor is a code editor with AI built in, so you can ask it to write, change or explain code.
- Category Agents & tools
- Also called Cursor editor
- Updated 20 Oct 2026
Cursor, explained simply
Cursor is an app for writing code. It looks like other code editors, but AI is part of it. You can chat with it about your project.
It matters because you can describe a change in plain words and see the edit appear in your files.
For example, you could say, "Make this button blue and add a hover effect." Cursor edits the right file for you.
It was built on the same base as VS Code, so it feels familiar to many people.
On ITG Now, our daily AI news covers AI code editors like Cursor, and our free tool guides show how to set up similar tools.
Related terms
IDEVS CodeAI coding agentGitHub CopilotVibe coding
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Questions people ask about Cursor
Is Cursor free?
There is a free plan with limits and paid plans. Check Cursor's site for current options.
Cursor vs GitHub Copilot: what is the difference?
Cursor is a full editor with AI inside. Copilot is an add-on that works in editors you already have.
Do I need to know how to code to use Cursor?
It helps, but beginners use it to build simple projects. Check the results as you go.