Instinct, an AI agent startup, launched in August using an invite-only model without traditional marketing or a website. Despite competition from Muse and Dots, the company reached a 10 billion USD valuation in late September. Founder Noah Shinn, a former employee of Sierra, emphasizes that the service is built specifically for personal daily tasks.
The agent operates via text-based interfaces including iMessage, WhatsApp, and email, avoiding a dedicated app. Users can connect the service to Google Workspace, Slack, and Notion, with sensitive data handled through a secure vault. The system is designed to perform actions like scheduling appointments and managing digital paperwork.
While currently free for invite-only users, the company intends to keep the service affordable. Analysts suggest the startup is prioritizing rapid growth to secure future revenue, potentially through subscriptions, acquisitions, or advertising. The platform has already begun testing recommended products for its user base.
Testing shows the agent can handle complex requests, such as identifying specific products from vague descriptions or cross-referencing calendar conflicts. However, the service still faces challenges with incomplete data on websites, occasionally missing specific prerequisites or details during task execution.
