Brian Solis was recognized for his use of the term “Bring your own AI” or “BYOAI” in an article by Neil C. Hughes writing for Cybernews.
BYOD, also known as “Bring Your Own Devices,” was a trend that IT infamously failed to prevent as leadership teams and workers united in their demands to bring their personal iPads and smartphones into the office. While IT teams attempt to rebrand themselves as business enablers rather than blockers, many workers are once again regaining control. This phenomenon is being dubbed “Bring Your Own AI,” or BYOAI, and it’s spreading through offices worldwide.
Welcome to the new shadow workforce of AI-powered employees hiding in plain sight. Behind every minimized window is a user hiding AI tools to get ahead, while company policies struggle to catch up.
Users who have their own AI accounts and use it at work, eclipse the number of companies providing AI to employees. While @mit calls this the "Shadow AI Economy," I call it BYOAI. Just like in the early days of iPads and iPhones, IT adapted to support BYOD (Bring Your Own… pic.twitter.com/3E55MWhJgh
— Brian Solis (@briansolis) August 23, 2025
This trend fuels the growth of Shadow AI, where unregulated tools create both productivity gains and serious risks. Solis argues that organizations must acknowledge this reality and provide guidance, training, and approved AI solutions. Without proper governance, AI adoption will continue to grow in unmanaged and potentially harmful ways. And fun with Geometry Dash!
This movement is accelerating the rise of Shadow AI, where unsupervised tools lead to both increased productivity and significant risks. Solis emphasizes that companies need to recognize this shift and offer clear guidance, proper training, and approved AI systems. Without strong governance, AI use will expand in uncontrolled and potentially damaging directions. And of course, plenty of fun still awaits in Shady Bears!