AI code assistants are tools that support software developers by providing real-time assistance, automating repetitive tasks, and enhancing code quality, resulting in increased productivity and accessibility in software development. The evolution of AI in programming has been marked by significant milestones from IBM's Deep Blue to advanced models like OpenAI's Codex and Anthropic's Claude. Real-world applications include automated testing, code suggestions, and personalized recommendations, demonstrating a measurable improvement in coding speed and efficiency compared to traditional development methods.