Poke Launches AI Agents Across iMessage, SMS and Telegram
Poke, a Palo Alto–based startup, has introduced an AI assistant that operates directly through messaging platforms such as iMessage, SMS, and Telegram, allowing users to automate everyday tasks simply by sending text commands. The platform can manage calendars, send reminders, track health goals, control smart-home devices and connect with services like Gmail, Google Calendar and Notion using automation tools called “recipes.” With no dedicated app required, users can interact with the AI through familiar chat interfaces after registering their phone number on the Poke website. The company, which has raised $25 million in funding and reached a valuation of about $300 million, aims to make advanced AI accessible through everyday messaging and believes this approach could represent the next evolution of agentic AI systems.
A new startup called Poke is aiming to make artificial intelligence assistants as simple to use as sending a text message. The company has launched an AI agent that works directly through messaging platforms such as iMessage, SMS and Telegram, allowing users to automate tasks without installing a separate app.
The service, which publicly launched in March, lets users interact with a personal AI assistant through familiar messaging interfaces. Instead of opening a dedicated AI application, users can simply send a text command and the agent will carry out tasks on their behalf.
AI Assistant That Works Through Text
Poke’s system is designed to function like a digital personal assistant accessible through everyday chat platforms. The AI can help with activities such as organizing daily schedules, managing calendars, tracking health and fitness goals, controlling smart home devices, editing photos and delivering reminders.
Users can also create automated tasks using simple text instructions. For example, the assistant can:
- Send weather-based reminders
- Notify users about important emails
- Deliver sports scores
- Remind someone to take medication
According to Poke co-founder Marvin von Hagen, the product originally focused on email automation but quickly expanded as users began asking it to handle many more everyday tasks.
No App Required
One of the startup’s key features is its no-app approach. Users simply visit the Poke website, register their phone number and begin interacting with the AI through text messages. The platform integrates with messaging services using a system called Linq.
Support for WhatsApp is currently limited due to restrictions in Meta’s policies, though the company plans to expand compatibility where possible.
“Recipes” for Automation
Poke also offers built-in automation tools known as “recipes.” These allow users to connect the AI with other services such as:
- Gmail
- Google Calendar
- Outlook
- Notion
- Smart-home systems
Developers can also integrate workflows with platforms like:
- GitHub
- Vercel
- Supabase
- Sentry
The company says thousands of recipes have already been created by users. In the future, these will be placed in a searchable catalog and creators may receive payments when new users join through their shared automations.
Funding and Valuation
The Palo Alto–based startup currently has a team of about 10 employees and has raised $25 million in funding, including a recent $10 million investment added to an earlier $15 million seed round. The company is now valued at approximately $300 million.
Investors backing the company include:
- Spark Capital
- General Catalyst
- Several prominent angel investors from the technology sector
Privacy and Growth Strategy
Poke says its platform uses a multi-layered security model, including regular penetration testing and permission controls to protect user data. By default, conversation data remains private unless users opt to share logs or analytics.
The startup’s strategy currently prioritizes user growth over immediate profitability. Pricing begins with a free tier, with costs increasing depending on usage, such as real-time data requests or automation frequency.
Vision for Everyday AI
The founders believe that messaging apps could become the central interface for interacting with AI. By embedding assistants into everyday conversations, the company hopes to make advanced AI tools accessible to billions of users without requiring technical knowledge.
If successful, Poke’s approach could signal a broader shift toward “agentic AI” systems that act on behalf of users rather than simply answering questions.
