Can Inmates Use AI?
Yes, but not the way people on the outside do. Inmates in federal prison have no internet access, so they can't open ChatGPT or any other AI app. What they do have is TRULINCS, the Bureau of Prisons email system, which connects to the outside through CorrLinks. InM8AI uses that email system to bring AI to people in prison: an inmate sends a question by email, and an AI answer comes back as a reply.
Why can't inmates just use ChatGPT?
Prison computers are closed systems. TRULINCS lets inmates send text-only messages to approved contacts, and nothing else. There's no web browser, no apps, and no attachments. Any AI service for inmates has to work inside those limits. (More on this in ChatGPT for Inmates.)
How does AI for inmates work?
- The inmate adds an InM8AI address to their TRULINCS contact list.
- They type a question as a normal email, just like writing to family.
- InM8AI's AI reads the question and writes a plain-language answer.
- The answer arrives in the inmate's TRULINCS inbox, typically within the hour.
No special equipment, tablet, or app is needed. If someone can email family on TRULINCS, they can use InM8AI.
What can inmates ask an AI?
Most everyday questions: explaining a word or idea, help writing a letter, studying for a GED, learning a trade, planning for release, or just learning about the world. See what inmates can use AI for.
Is AI allowed in prison?
TRULINCS lets inmates email approved outside contacts, and InM8AI is an outside contact like any other. Every message is monitored by the Bureau of Prisons, the same as all TRULINCS email. InM8AI follows BOP rules on what can be discussed, and its AI won't help with anything that breaks facility rules. Read our Safety & Compliance page for details.
How much does it cost?
InM8AI is $5 per month during our launch offer, and that rate is locked in for a full year. Inmates also pay the standard TRULINCS fee of 5 cents per minute while reading or writing messages, the same as any email. Family and friends can pay the subscription for their loved one.
How do I get AI for someone in prison?
Join the waitlist to get first access and the $5/month launch rate. Families can follow our step-by-step guide.