A new artificial intelligence feature from Grammarly is drawing attention for how it claims to improve writing by referencing well-known thinkers and writers. The feature, called Expert Review, was introduced in August 2025 as part of the platform’s broader set of AI-powered tools. It appears in the sidebar of the company’s main writing assistant and offers revision suggestions that are presented as feedback written “from the perspective” of well-known subject matter experts.
According to reports from technology publications, the tool frames its suggestions as if they are inspired by well-known authors, including both living and historical figures. In some instances, the system even presents feedback as if it reflects the style or viewpoint of technology journalists from major media outlets. Curious about how the feature works, one reporter tested it by pasting an early draft of a story into the platform. Instead of feedback from colleagues, the tool suggested adding ethical context like Casey Newton, “leverage the anecdote for reader alignment” like Kara Swisher, and “pose the bigger accountability question” like Timnit Gebru.
However, none of these individuals appear to have participated in the development of the feature or given permission for their names to be used. Alex Gay, vice president of product and corporate marketing at Grammarly’s parent company Superhuman, told a technology publication that these references appear because the individuals’ published work is publicly available and widely cited. The company also states in its user guide that the mentions are not endorsements. The guide explains: “References to experts in Expert Review are for informational purposes only and do not indicate any affiliation with Grammarly or endorsement by those individuals or entities.”
While the explanation clarifies the company’s position, critics argue that the feature may still create confusion about whether real experts are involved. Historian C. E. Aubin questioned the premise of the tool in comments to a publication. “These are not expert reviews, because there are no ‘experts’ involved in producing them.” The debate highlights broader concerns about how AI tools present authority and credibility when offering writing advice that appears linked to well-known public figures.
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