AI-powered agents are being introduced to Slack's platform, offering users a range of new capabilities. Agentforce, formerly known as Einstein Copilot, will be available in beta in October 2024, allowing users to access Salesforce CRM data and perform tasks like drafting emails directly within Slack1. Additionally, third-party AI agents from companies such as Adobe Express, Asana, Box, Cohere, Workday, and Writer are now accessible through the Slack Marketplace2. For organizations with specific needs, Slack provides APIs that enable the creation and integration of custom AI agents12. These additions aim to enhance productivity by enabling users to interact with various tools and perform complex tasks without leaving the Slack interface.

New capabilities have been added to Slack AI, available as a paid add-on for subscribers. These include AI-generated Huddle summaries, which provide notes and action items from Slack Huddle meetings, enhancing productivity for teams1. The AI Workflow Builder now allows users to create automated workflows using natural language prompts, simplifying the process of task automation2. Additionally, Slack's AI search functionality has been expanded to include results from files, canvases, and connected apps like Google Docs and Microsoft files, making it easier for users to find relevant information across various platforms12.

Salesforce Channels, a new feature bundled with the Salesforce Starter Suite, brings CRM information directly into Slack conversations, allowing users to access and update CRM data without switching platforms1. This integration aims to streamline workflows and reduce context switching for sales teams. Additionally, Slack is introducing templates in October 2024, which will provide pre-built configurations for specific tasks or team needs, further enhancing productivity and standardizing processes across organizations2.

Designed to streamline project initiation and standardize workflows, Slack templates will be available starting October 20241. These pre-configured setups can include customized channel structures, integrated canvas documents for project briefs, Slack lists for project planning, and automated workflows for status updates2. By providing a starting point for various team needs, templates aim to reduce setup time and ensure consistency across different projects and departments within an organization.