All the AI agents that can live in your text messages

You can now manage many personal and family tasks directly within your text messages without downloading new apps.

A new wave of AI agents is emerging that operate directly within text messaging platforms, eliminating the need for separate applications. These agents, such as Caddy, Fambot, Folk, Instinct, Iris, Martin, Miso, Ohai, Ollie, Orbits, Pally, and Poke, can be texted like a person to perform various tasks. They remember context, connect to existing apps and services, and can handle actions like scheduling, research, reservations, and online shopping. Some agents are general-purpose personal assistants, while others focus on specific areas like family management or travel planning. Several of these AI agents have recently secured significant funding, with Instinct notably raising $1 billion at a $10 billion valuation. Companies like Instinct are even offering dedicated email addresses for their agents to manage accounts and signups autonomously. These text-based AI assistants are designed to streamline daily life by organizing information and executing tasks directly through familiar messaging interfaces.

The proliferation of AI agents within text messaging platforms signifies a shift towards more integrated and ambient computing experiences. By leveraging existing communication channels like SMS, iMessage, and WhatsApp, these agents reduce user friction and cognitive load, making AI assistance more accessible and less intrusive. This trend suggests a future where AI seamlessly blends into daily routines, acting as proactive digital assistants across various facets of life, from personal organization to family coordination.

This development directly impacts how consumers interact with technology and services, democratizing access to AI capabilities beyond dedicated apps. For companies, it presents an opportunity to embed their services within these AI agents, reaching users in a more pervasive manner. The competitive landscape is heating up, with significant funding rounds indicating strong investor confidence in this new paradigm of AI interaction.