Here are the top AI agents that can live in your text messages

Various AI agents can now function within text messages, eliminating the need for separate applications. These agents can comprehend context, connect to pre-existing apps and services, and carry out tasks on behalf of users. This can range from scheduling appointments and organizing calendars to researching trips and managing emails.

Instinct, currently the most talked-about AI agent, boasts a $10 billion valuation following a $1 billion funding round. However, other noteworthy agents are also vying for a place in this domain. Here are the most prominent options thus far, spanning general-purpose personal assistants to those tailored for families, travel, and work.

Caddy functions as an AI assistant that consolidates information scattered across a user's phone into actionable items. It operates within iMessage for iPhone users and RCS for Android users, offering a seamless integration without the need for a separate app or inbox. For example, if an email contains an appointment to be added to the calendar or a friend lists items to pick up, Caddy can seamlessly connect to your calendars and conversations, identify tasks that require action, add events to your calendar, set reminders, track follow-ups, and even conduct research for you. Caddy has been accessible in public beta since April 2026.

Comma is tailored to manage tasks across both professional and personal spheres. It ensures that tasks are completed, reviews its own work, and determines task completion. When a decision or approval is necessary, its findings are highlighted. Comma also proactively notifies users and suggests subsequent steps. It can operate across a user's browser, computer, and files, while remaining accessible remotely through messaging platforms like Signal, Telegram, and WeChat.

Comma upholds context and memory across devices and conversations, and can provide daily overviews, highlight urgent matters, and summarize recorded calls. It is accessible on iOS, Android, and web platforms and can interact via SMS. Families can engage with Fambot via app, web, or SMS, and every night, Fambot automatically sends a summary of the forthcoming day, including upcoming events, to-dos, and details like school uniform or packing requirements.

Parents can reply to these messages to inquire, verify information, or modify their calendar. Fambot currently links to Gmail, Google Calendar, Outlook, and WhatsApp, with future support for Apple Calendar anticipated. The service is currently free during its beta phase and is expected to charge a fee comparable to a Netflix subscription after the beta period.

Folk is an AI assistant accessible through iMessage, WhatsApp, and Telegram. It can recall personal context, manage reminders, research topics, track flights, handle emails, and perform real-world tasks such as restaurant reservations. One unique feature is that Folk operates on its own private cloud computer and can execute multi-step tasks. It also allows code execution. Folk launched its beta in May 2026 and is currently free, with a Pro subscription option at $8.33/month for unlimited background task execution.

Instinct gained attention after raising $350 million at a $2.5 billion valuation. In September 2026, it raised $1 billion, valuing it at $10 billion. This always-available agent can perform actions on behalf of users rather than merely answering questions. Users can communicate with Instinct via text or voice and link it to pre-existing apps and services like email, calendar, Google Workspace, and more.

The company reports that early users have utilized Instinct for tasks ranging from trip planning and grocery shopping to ticket booking and subscription cancellations. In September, Instinct introduced dedicated email addresses for its agents, allowing it to create and manage accounts on behalf of users while keeping personal inboxes clutter-free.

It's also rolling out support for placing calls. Backed by Hermes Agent, Iris can delegate tasks to an AI assistant directly through iMessage. Users can link the necessary apps, submit a task with a simple message, and the agent will execute the required steps while retaining relevant context from previous interactions. Iris proactively follows up with users instead of waiting for further requests.

Martin is a general-purpose personal assistant reachable via SMS, phone, WhatsApp, email, Slack, and its own iOS app. It can manage calendars, emails, reminders, tasks, notes, and communications. It can also act on behalf of users by sending messages or making phone calls and provide daily summaries of tasks needing attention. Priced at $21 per month, Martin is on the pricier side of the market.

Miso combines AI trip planning with a dedicated travel team's support through iMessage. It allows users to arrange flights via messaging while Miso considers their travel preferences and loyalty points.