Salesforce rolls out new Slackbot AI agent as it battles Microsoft and Google in workplace AI
VentureBeat AI Michael Nuñez
Salesforce launched a rebuilt Slackbot AI agent that transforms the workplace chat tool from a basic notification system into a full AI assistant capable of searching enterprise data, drafting documents, and taking autonomous action. Internal testing with 80,000 Salesforce employees showed two-thirds tried the new Slackbot, with 96% satisfaction among users and employees reporting savings of two to 20 hours per week. The release positions Slack as Salesforce's centerpiece for competing with Microsoft's Copilot and Google's Gemini in enterprise AI, with plans to support multiple AI models and coordinate with third-party agents.
Why it matters
Salesforce on Tuesday launched an entirely rebuilt version of Slackbot, the company's workplace assistant, transforming it from a simple notification tool into what executives describe as a fully powered AI agent capable of searching enterprise data, drafting documents, and taking action on behalf of employees.The new Slackbot, now generally available to Business+ and Enterprise+ customers, is Salesforce's most aggressive move yet to position Slack at the center of the emerging "agentic AI" movement — where software agents work alongside humans to complete complex tasks. The launch comes as Salesforce attempts to convince investors that artificial intelligence will bolster its products rather than render them obsolete."Slackbot isn't just another copilot or AI assistant," said Parker Harris, Salesforce co-founder and Slack's chief technology officer, in an exclusive interview with Salesforce. "It's the front door to the agentic enterprise, powered by Salesforce."From tricycle to Porsch
