Is Poke the future of AI assistants? The new startup’s launch of an AI agent accessible via iMessage, SMS and Telegram is set to make everyday tasks easier. From managing your calendar to tracking fitness goals, users can now get things done by simply sending a text.

Poke's co-founder Marvin von Hagen notes that the team noticed testers wanted Poke for everything, not just email reminders. Now, with over $30 million in funding and 10 people on board, the startup is looking to make automation accessible to all, without the need for technical know-how.

Unlike other agentic AI systems like OpenClaw, which require more setup, Poke’s user-friendly interface means you can get started simply by visiting their website. The tool uses a combination of big tech models and open-source solutions, making it versatile in its approach to tasks.

Von Hagen also highlights Poke's security measures, including regular penetration testing and limiting permissions for agents and human employees. However, the app’s accessibility comes with challenges, such as WhatsApp support being limited due to Meta’s restrictions on general-purpose chatbots.

The launch of thousands of user-created recipes adds a personal touch, making automation feel more like a collaborative effort between users. As Poke continues to grow, it remains to be seen how it will fit into our increasingly automated world and whether it could eventually replace the need for human assistants altogether.