Apple approves Poke as the first AI agent on its Messages for Business platform

June 4, 2026 - 18:30

Poke, a startup that allows users to interact with AI agents through simple text messages, has secured approval as the first AI agent on Apple's Messages for Business platform. The integration marks a notable shift in how businesses can engage with customers directly within Apple's messaging ecosystem.

Until now, Apple's Messages for Business was primarily used for customer service interactions, appointment scheduling, and order updates. With Poke's approval, businesses can now deploy AI agents that handle more complex tasks, from answering product questions to processing transactions, all within the familiar text message interface. The AI agents are designed to understand natural language and provide responses without requiring users to download additional apps or navigate away from the chat.

Poke's technology focuses on making AI accessible through the most basic form of communication: text. Users send a message, and the AI agent interprets the request, pulls relevant information, and replies accordingly. For businesses, this means they can offer 24/7 support and automate routine inquiries without hiring extra staff.

The approval from Apple signals a growing acceptance of AI-powered tools within tightly controlled platforms. Apple has historically been cautious about third-party integrations, especially those involving automated systems. Poke's success in meeting Apple's security and privacy standards could open the door for other AI agents to follow. The startup plans to roll out the feature to select business partners in the coming weeks, with a broader launch expected later this year.