Apple Messages Platform: Poke has received approval to operate on Apple’s Messages for Business platform, becoming the first AI agent allowed to run on the service. The move expands access to the startup’s AI assistant through iMessage and marks a notable development for Apple’s business messaging ecosystem, which has traditionally been used by companies to communicate with their customers.
The approval allows Poke users to interact with the AI agent through Apple’s messaging interface, adding iMessage to a list of supported channels that already includes SMS, Telegram, and, in some regions, WhatsApp.
Apple Messages for Business opens its doors to an AI agent
Apple’s Messages for Business platform was originally built to help organizations such as retailers, airlines, hotels, and service providers communicate directly with customers. The platform supports automated interactions and live customer support within iMessage.
With Poke’s approval, Apple has now enabled a stand-alone AI agent to operate through the platform. Rather than functioning as a traditional mobile application, the AI service responds to user questions and requests directly through text conversations.
Poke launched earlier this year with a focus on making AI agents accessible to everyday users. Through simple text-based interactions, users can manage schedules, organize calendars, monitor health and fitness activities, control smart home devices, and perform photo-editing tasks.
According to the company, the platform has already processed around 100 million messages.
New business model emerges for AI startups
The approval also introduces a new commercial framework for AI agent providers. According to Poke co-founder Marvin von Hagen, the company pays Apple on a per-user basis to operate through the platform.
While specific pricing details were not disclosed, von Hagen stated that the costs are lower than those faced by some AI services operating on competing messaging platforms.
The arrangement could create an additional revenue stream for Apple while introducing a new distribution expense for AI startups seeking access to users through Apple’s ecosystem.
Approval process required platform compliance
To gain approval, Poke was required to demonstrate that users could access live support when necessary and that the service clearly identified itself as an AI agent.
The company also adjusted its interface to comply with Apple’s platform guidelines. Changes included adopting Apple’s design standards for interface elements and displaying link previews instead of inline links.
According to von Hagen, the compliance and approval process took several months and may require a similar timeframe for other companies seeking entry to the platform.
Expansion comes ahead of Apple’s developer conference
The announcement arrives shortly before Apple’s annual developer conference, where the company is widely expected to discuss new artificial intelligence initiatives and developer-focused AI tools.
Although there has been speculation about broader AI agent support across Apple’s ecosystem, Poke’s approval relates specifically to Messages for Business rather than the App Store.
Existing Poke users are currently receiving invitations to move their conversations to the iMessage experience if they choose. The company will continue offering subscription plans, including payment options through Apple’s system.
Startup valuation reaches $300 million
Poke is backed by investors including Spark Capital and General Catalyst. The startup recently secured an additional $10 million in funding on top of a previous $15 million seed round.
Following the latest investment, the company has reached a reported post-money valuation of $300 million. The company currently operates with a team of around 10 employees.
Read More: iPhone 18 Pro Max Leak Suggests no Major Change in Thickness, Battery Upgrade Expected
FAQs
What is Poke?
Poke is an AI agent that allows users to perform tasks and receive assistance through text-based conversations across messaging platforms.
What is Apple Messages for Business?
Apple Messages for Business is a platform that enables businesses to communicate with customers directly through iMessage for support, information, and service-related interactions.
Why is Poke’s approval significant?
Poke is the first AI agent approved to operate on Apple Messages for Business, expanding AI access within Apple’s messaging ecosystem.
Which platforms support Poke?
Poke currently supports SMS, Telegram, WhatsApp in selected markets, and now iMessage through Apple Messages for Business.
Does Poke operate as an App Store application?
No. Poke’s approval relates to Apple Messages for Business, allowing users to interact with the AI through messaging rather than a traditional mobile app.
