Instinct released its AI agent for group chats on October 5, 2026, saying it can now be added to chats with friends, which could be helpful in scenarios like travel planning, event ticketing, fantasy leagues, carpools, or Thanksgiving planning. It is the company's first major update to its AI agent functionality since its initial launch.
Instinct reported no specific benchmark score, but the feature is built on its proprietary AI platform and targets collaborative planning scenarios. Availability begins with early access users, initially for those who have signed up for the company's beta program.
"Making plans with friends usually turns into a frustrating back-and-forth over times and places. With Instinct in the group, you can explore options together, agree on a plan and get it done, all in one thread," said Noah Shinn, founder of Instinct. The personal agent will always ask the user’s permission before sharing information or taking any action.
The announcement follows recent competition moves by Instinct and Meta, with both adding the ability to make phone calls. Instinct said it is moving ahead in its battle for consumer AI market share.
Instinct did not say how the feature will scale to larger groups, and it raised the question of how users will manage privacy and trust in group settings. The feature is rolling out initially to Instinct’s early access users but will expand to all users "soon."
Source: techcrunch
