Startups··1 min read

All the AI agents that can live in your text messages 

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A growing number of artificial intelligence agents now operate directly inside text messaging apps, letting users schedule appointments, book travel, and manage tasks without downloading separate programs. Leading this trend is Instinct, which reached a $10 billion valuation in September 2026 after…

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A growing number of artificial intelligence agents now operate directly inside text messaging apps, letting users schedule appointments, book travel, and manage tasks without downloading separate programs. Leading this trend is Instinct, which reached a $10 billion valuation in September 2026 after raising $1 billion. Instinct offers dedicated email addresses so the assistant can sign up for services on a user's behalf.

Other general-purpose assistants include Caddy, Folk, Iris, Martin, Poke, and Rene, which handle tasks via platforms like iMessage, WhatsApp, and Telegram. Poke became the first AI agent approved on the Apple Messages for Business platform in June 2026. Specialized tools are also emerging for specific needs. Miso focuses on travel planning through iMessage, while Stanley targets content creators and raised $55 million in a Series A round led by Andreessen Horowitz and Forerunner in June 2026.

Family-focused assistants like Fambot, Ohai, and Ollie organize household schedules and school communications. Ollie notably achieved SOC 2 security compliance after its June 2026 launch. Most of these services offer free beta periods or tiers alongside monthly subscription plans.

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TechCrunch

Original author: Lauren Forristal

Original publication: 3 October 2026 19:30

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