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Apple approves Poke as the first AI agent on its Messages for Business platform
Poke has become the first AI agent approved for Apple's Messages for Business platform, enabling businesses to communicate via text securely. Launched in March 2026, Poke assists users in daily activities and has sent over 100 million messages. The move allows Apple to monetize AI use through a per-user fee. The startup's adherence to Apple's strict guidelines highlights a growing trend towards trust and quality in consumer AI tools.
Key points
- Poke is the first AI agent approved for Apple's Messages for Business, allowing direct business communication with customers via iMessage.
- Poke launched in March 2026 and currently supports SMS, Telegram, WhatsApp, and now iMessage, enabling tasks like daily planning and fitness tracking.
- Poke has sent over 100 million messages, indicating strong user engagement.
- Apple will charge Poke on a per-user basis for its use of the Messages for Business platform, creating a new revenue model.
- The integration required Poke to meet specific Apple guidelines, including user interface customizations and the ability to provide live support if needed.
- Poke’s founders emphasize the importance of trust and quality in their service, differentiating from other AI tools.
Why it matters
- The approval of Poke coincides with a broader trend of integrating AI into business platforms, reflecting the increasing reliance on AI for customer interaction.
- Apple's potential introduction of AI-optimized Siri and other tools at WWDC highlights the growing emphasis on AI capabilities across tech companies.
- The shift towards using AI in business communications aligns with the rising need for automation and efficiency in customer service.
Poke's approval marks a significant milestone in business communications, showcasing the potential for AI to enhance customer interactions via popular messaging platforms while setting a precedent for future AI developments within Apple.