Ando Launches AI-Native Messaging Platform for Human and Agent Teams

Startup Ando has launched a team messaging platform designed for workplaces where humans and AI agents collaborate in the same conversations.

The company aims to rethink workplace communication tools such as Slack and Microsoft Teams by treating AI agents as active participants rather than simple applications added to existing platforms.

A Messaging Platform Built for AI Agents

Ando was founded by Sara Du, who previously worked on Model Context Protocol (MCP) servers and saw companies struggling to use AI agents inside traditional messaging tools.

Du said existing communication platforms were designed around humans sharing information, while AI agents increasingly need access to conversations, context, and team workflows.

Ando gives AI agents their own identities and inboxes, allowing them to participate in channels, direct messages, group conversations, and live calls. The company says agents can understand discussions, ask questions, and notify human teammates when needed.

Ando Raises Funding to Expand Platform

Ando announced $20 million in pre-seed and seed funding from investors including Accel, Index Ventures, and Emergence.

The startup says it is building a replacement for traditional workplace messaging systems where AI workers and human employees can coordinate tasks together.

Competition in AI Workplace Collaboration

Ando enters a market where major technology companies are already adding AI features to workplace software. Slack has expanded its AI capabilities, while Microsoft has integrated Copilot into Teams and its broader productivity tools.

Other startups are also exploring communication platforms designed around AI agents. Jack Dorsey’s company Buzz has introduced a messaging experience focused on combining people and AI agents, though it is aimed more toward developers.

Building Teams With AI Workers

Du said early versions of Ando looked similar to traditional messaging apps, but users began seeing more value as AI agents started handling larger amounts of coordination work.

The company says its platform is being used by customers in software, real estate, and finance across 15 countries, although many current teams are small.

Ando plans to use its new funding to grow its team and continue developing a platform where AI agents can handle more execution, research, and coordination tasks. At the same time, humans focus on decisions and strategy.