A growing number of AI agents now function directly through messaging apps like iMessage, WhatsApp, and Telegram, allowing users to delegate tasks without downloading dedicated software. These assistants can manage calendars, handle emails, conduct research, and perform real-world actions like restaurant reservations or shopping.
Instinct is a prominent player in this space, recently securing $1 billion in funding at a $10 billion valuation. Other notable agents include Fambot, which raised $3.5 million for family management, and Town, which closed a $55 million Series A round in June 2026 led by Andreessen Horowitz and Forerunner.
Differentiation among agents varies by focus and security. Ollie, for example, is noted for achieving SOC 2 compliance for family management. Meanwhile, Poke was acquired by Cognition in a deal valued in the low nine figures, and Wajo’s agent Fo provides its own payment credentials to interact with businesses on behalf of users.
Platforms like Folk and Orbits offer specialized features, such as running code on private cloud computers or providing dedicated travel support. Many of these services operate on freemium models, with subscription costs ranging from $8.33 per month for professional features to $100 per month for high-volume messaging tiers.
