The Rise of the AI SMS Agent
AI-generated image · Bay Street Wire
New AI assistants are moving into text messaging, allowing users to manage calendars, shopping, and travel via SMS and RCS.
A growing sector of AI agents is integrating directly into text messaging, allowing users to complete complex tasks without downloading dedicated apps, as TechCrunch first reported.
These agents can manage calendars, research trips, handle email, and make reservations. Some notable examples include:
* **Instinct**: Recently valued at $10 billion after a $1 billion funding round in September 2026, this agent can book tickets and cancel subscriptions. It has introduced dedicated email addresses to manage accounts on behalf of users and is rolling out calling support. * **Caddy**: Available in public beta since April 2026, Caddy operates via iMessage and RCS to turn phone data into actionable tasks, such as adding events to calendars. * **Folk**: Launched in May 2026, Folk runs on a private cloud computer to execute multi-step tasks. It is free, with a Pro subscription available for $8.33 per month. * **Comma**: An open-source tool accessible via Signal, Telegram, and WeChat that can summarize recorded calls and deliver daily briefings. * **Fambot**: A family-focused "chief of staff" that launched in beta in early September 2026 after raising $3.5 million in pre-seed funding. While currently free, the company plans to eventually charge a fee similar to a Netflix subscription. * **Martin**: A general-purpose assistant reachable via SMS, Slack, and WhatsApp, with subscriptions starting at $21 per month. * **Iris**: Powered by Hermes Agent, this tool allows iMessage users to delegate tasks that the agent then completes proactively.
TechCrunch notes that while these tools offer high levels of autonomy, the ability for agents to create accounts and manage emails has raised privacy and security concerns.