Introduction
Once the AI processes a request, how does the response appear? Across 12 AI systems, we found significant variation in how responses are displayed—from minimal text-only layouts to rich multi-panel interfaces with code previews, citations, and thinking transparency.
Key finding: Standalone systems prioritize streaming text with minimal chrome (0 of 6 show AI avatars), while integrated systems adapt to their host application's visual language. Split-view layouts are standard for code generation (5 of 12 systems), but rare for conversational responses.
Message Layout Patterns
| Pattern | Count | % | Systems |
|---|---|---|---|
| Left-aligned, no AI avatar | 8 | 67% | ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Perplexity, Microsoft Copilot, Notion AI, Google Docs AI, Airtable |
| Left-aligned, AI avatar shown | 2 | 17% | GitHub Copilot, Retool AI |
| Sidebar panel layout | 5 | 42% | Notion AI, Google Docs AI, Airtable, Atlassian Rovo, Retool AI |
| Full-width response | 7 | 58% |