Instinct AI assistant completes tasks via text message

An invitation-only AI assistant called Instinct is gaining traction in Silicon Valley by performing everyday tasks entirely through text messages—no app downloads or technical configuration required.

The service has handled a range of personal errands for early users, according to a report first published by Business Insider. Tasks completed include booking travel accommodations and restaurant reservations, ordering products from Costco, faxing documents to financial institutions, verifying insurance networks and scheduling medical appointments, communicating with customer service representatives, canceling forgotten subscriptions, and responding to emails.

How Instinct works

Unlike existing AI tools that require users to navigate interfaces or follow multi-step processes, Instinct operates exclusively via SMS. Users send a text describing what they need, and the system executes the task. This approach eliminates setup friction and makes the technology accessible to anyone comfortable with text messaging.

The service represents what the technology industry calls "agentic AI"—systems designed to complete tasks autonomously rather than simply providing instructions or information. Meta is reportedly testing a similar concept called Hatch.

Funding and founder background

The Wall Street Journal reported that Instinct is raising $250 million at a $2.5 billion valuation. The company was founded by Noah Shinn, a 23-year-old who left Northeastern University and previously worked as an early employee at AI company Sierra. Shinn did not respond to requests for comment from Business Insider.

Privacy considerations

The service's effectiveness depends on extensive access to users' digital lives. To perform tasks like managing subscriptions, booking appointments, or handling customer service interactions, Instinct requires connections to email accounts, calendars, and login credentials for various services.

According to the company's terms of service, Instinct may train its AI models using data from user interactions. This data collection is standard practice in the AI industry but raises questions about how personal information is stored, processed, and potentially shared.

Why it matters

Instinct's text-based approach and high valuation signal investor confidence that consumers want AI to move beyond chatbots and actually execute tasks on their behalf. The service's rapid adoption among tech industry insiders suggests demand for tools that reduce the cognitive load of managing modern digital life—from healthcare administration to subscription management. However, the trade-off between convenience and privacy access will likely become a central debate as agentic AI services proliferate. Companies that can deliver meaningful automation while maintaining user trust around data handling may define the next phase of consumer AI adoption.

Business Insider first reported the details about Instinct's capabilities and funding round.