A virtual assistant is an artificial intelligence (AI) program that is designed to provide assistance and perform tasks for users through various digital platforms. It can perform a wide range of functions such as answering questions, providing information, scheduling appointments, setting reminders, sending messages, making calls, playing music, and controlling smart home devices. Virtual assistants use natural language processing and machine learning algorithms to understand and respond to user commands and queries. They are commonly found in smartphones, smart speakers, and other smart devices, and their capabilities continue to expand with advancements in AI technology.