Kiwi

A new digital assistant called Kiwi aims to shift how people interact with artificial intelligence by sending messages directly to users before they ask for help. According to the company's official website, the software monitors a person's digital accounts, such as email and calendars, to identify upcoming events and potential conflicts. When an event requires action, such as rescheduling a package delivery or booking a ride after a flight delay, Kiwi texts the user via mainstream messaging services to ask for permission to handle the task.

This shift from reactive chatbots to proactive agents could reduce the time people spend managing routine personal logistics. Rather than forcing users to open multiple applications to compare flight status, request rides, or reserve tables, Kiwi presents ready-made solutions directly within existing chat threads. To address privacy and financial concerns, the company states that the software cannot make purchases, contact third parties, or access passwords without explicit user confirmation.

While the service is currently offered for free, it remains unclear how the company plans to build a sustainable business model without selling user data or introducing subscription fees. Moreover, granting an artificial intelligence broad access to personal email and calendar feeds creates significant security trade-offs, even with advertised encryption safeguards. It also remains to be seen whether users will welcome frequent text check-ins from an automated system or eventually view them as an intrusive form of digital noise.