Merit-Systems/OpenInstinct

What it solves

OpenInstinct provides a way to have a personal AI assistant accessible via iMessage that can perform real-world digital tasks—such as booking movie tickets or handling groceries—by interacting with a web browser on your behalf. It addresses the privacy concerns of personal agents by being self-hostable, ensuring that users maintain control over their passwords, credit cards, and sensitive context.

How it works

The system integrates several services to function as an agent: it uses Linq to connect to iMessage, Kernel for cloud-based browser automation, and Vercel AI Gateway for model inference. It employs a private Blob store for per-user memory and browser images, and a PostgreSQL database (via Neon) for application data and "workstreams" (long-term goals and observations). It can also connect to Google Workspace via OAuth to manage Gmail, Calendar, and Contacts.

Who it’s for

Users who want a private, self-hosted AI agent capable of executing web-based chores and managing personal schedules through a chat interface.

Highlights

• Browser-based Action: Can navigate websites to perform checkouts and bookings.
• Self-Hostable: Designed to run in the user's own Vercel account to keep secrets encrypted and private.
• iMessage Integration: Accessible directly through iMessage via Linq.
• Memory Management: Features per-user memory and "workstreams" to track goals and unresolved steps across conversations.
• Google Workspace Integration: Ability to read/modify Gmail and manage Calendar events.