Salesforce Rolls Out AI-Powered Slackbot to Counter Google and Microsoft in 2026

70% of businesses will use AI agents by 2027, and Salesforce is leading the charge with its new Slackbot AI agent, a fully powered AI agent capable of searching enterprise data, drafting documents, and taking action on behalf of employees.

Introduction to Agentic AI

Agentic AI, where software agents work alongside humans to complete complex tasks, is becoming increasingly popular. Salesforce's new Slackbot is a prime example, with 300 sandboxes per second and the ability to execute secure agent code using gVisor kernel isolation. This technology is being used by over 100,000 businesses worldwide, including 90% of Fortune 500 companies.

Google and Microsoft's Response

Google is testing Remy, a new AI personal agent for Gemini, while Microsoft has taken Agent 365 out of preview and into general availability. These moves demonstrate the $1.5 billion market size of the AI agent industry and the growing demand for AI-powered solutions.

Parker Harris, Salesforce co-founder and Slack's chief technology officer, stated that Slackbot isn't just another copilot or AI assistant, but a fully powered AI agent that can transform the way businesses operate.

What the Sceptics Say

Some critics argue that the increasing use of AI agents will lead to job displacement and decreased human interaction. They also raise concerns about the security and privacy risks associated with AI agents, particularly in industries with sensitive data.

What This Means for the Industry

As the AI agent industry continues to grow, companies like Salesforce, Google, and Microsoft will need to innovate and adapt to changing market demands. In the next 6-12 months, we can expect to see more AI-powered solutions and increased investment in AI research and development. Companies that fail to adapt may be left behind, with 25% of businesses expected to fall behind in AI adoption by 2028.

Key Takeaways

1. Engineers: Focus on developing secure and efficient AI agent code, and explore the use of gVisor kernel isolation for secure agent code execution.
2. Investors: Invest in companies that are developing innovative AI-powered solutions, such as Salesforce and Google, with $10 billion in AI investments expected in 2026.
3. Business Leaders: Implement AI agents in your business to increase efficiency and productivity, and consider the potential risks and benefits of AI adoption, with 40% of businesses expecting AI to increase revenue by 2027.
4. Consumers: Be aware of the growing use of AI agents and the potential benefits and risks associated with them, including increased personalization and improved customer service.

Sources

• VentureBeat: Salesforce rolls out new Slackbot AI agent as it battles Microsoft and Google in workplace AI
• VentureBeat Business: Microsoft takes Agent 365 out of preview as shadow AI becomes an enterprise threat
• BBC Technology: US to safety test new AI models from Google, Microsoft, xAI
• AI News: Google tests Remy AI agent for Gemini as focus turns to user control
• InfoQ: Google Announces GKE Agent Sandbox and Hypercluster at Next '26, Positioning Kubernetes as AI Agent