Arc Search vs Poke (Interaction Co.)
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, and ratings
At a glance
| Dimension | Arc Search | Poke (Interaction Co.) |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | iOS only | Apple Messages, WhatsApp, Telegram, RCS |
| Core AI Feature | Browse for Me – AI page summaries | Messaging-based assistant for email, calendar, tasks |
| Key Integrations | Google/Notion/Outlook Calendar, Gmail, Outlook, Notion, Google Docs, Word, Google Meet, Twitter, YouTube, Spotify | Notion, Oura, Gmail, Outlook, TripIt, Todoist, PostHog |
| Privacy | No account required, ad/tracker blocking | Requires account, runs inside messaging apps |
| Best For | Mobile users wanting AI-curated search & private browsing | Individuals wanting AI assistant integrated into messaging |
Choose Arc Search if you want a fast, private iOS browser that summarizes web pages for you. Choose Poke if you prefer managing email, calendar, and tasks via chat (Apple Messages, WhatsApp, Telegram) while leveraging automations and integrations like Oura and Notion. The tools serve different needs: one optimizes mobile web browsing, the other transforms messaging into a personal assistant hub.
AI personal assistant in your texts — Apple Messages, WhatsApp, Telegram & RCS
Visit WebsiteWhat real users say: Arc Search vs Poke (Interaction Co.)
Not marketing copy and not our opinion — a structured sweep of public discussion (reviews, forums, communities and video comments), showing what people praise and what they complain about for each tool.
Arc Search
42 mentions across 3 sources · 30% positive — critical (averaged across 3 sources)
Hacker News, App Store, Lemmy
What users praise
- • AI 'Browse for Me' creates custom summaries from multiple pages.
- • Automatically blocks ads, trackers, and GDPR banners.
- • Keyboard opens automatically on launch for instant typing.
- • Auto-archives old tabs to keep browsing clutter-free.
What frustrates them
- • Many sites fail to load correctly — very buggy.
- • Form autofill is unreliable for credit cards and addresses.
- • Non-standard UX makes general browsing feel broken.
- • AI features may deter privacy-conscious users.
Researched Jul 3, 2026
Poke (Interaction Co.)
19 mentions across 1 sources · 7% positive — critical (averaged across 11 sources)
YouTube
What users praise
- • Integrates directly into iMessage, WhatsApp, Telegram, and RCS.
- • Handles email, calendar, reminders, and web search from chat.
- • Verified source citations for web results increase trust.
- • Deep integrations with Notion, Oura, Gmail, Outlook, TripIt.
What frustrates them
- • No community feedback on Reddit, HN, or other major platforms.
- • Premium pricing at $19-$199/month may be steep.
- • Workflow setup (Poke Recipes) may confuse new users.
- • Edge-case file handling like spreadsheets is unproven.
Researched Jul 17, 2026
Who should pick which
- Mobile privacy seekerPick: Arc Search
Arc Search blocks ads and trackers, requires no account, and auto-archives tabs – ideal for users who prioritize privacy and a clutter-free browsing experience.
- Busy professional managing email and calendarPick: Poke (Interaction Co.)
Poke integrates with Gmail, Outlook, and calendars directly in messaging, allowing quick scheduling and email management without app switching.
- Health enthusiast using Oura ringPick: Poke (Interaction Co.)
Poke connects to Oura for sleep, readiness, and activity data – accessible by typing in chat, eliminating need to open the Oura app.
- Frequent travelerPick: Poke (Interaction Co.)
Poke automates TripIt travel plans, providing itinerary details and updates via messaging.
- User wanting AI-curated search summariesPick: Arc Search
Arc Search's 'Browse for Me' compiles custom page summaries from multiple sources, saving time on lengthy scans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Arc Search vs Poke (Interaction Co.): which should you choose?
Choose Arc Search if you want a fast, private iOS browser that summarizes web pages for you. Choose Poke if you prefer managing email, calendar, and tasks via chat (Apple Messages, WhatsApp, Telegram) while leveraging automations and integrations like Oura and Notion. The tools serve different needs: one optimizes mobile web browsing, the other transforms messaging into a personal assistant hub.
Is Arc Search available on Android or desktop?
No, Arc Search is iOS-only (iPhone). The Browser Company recently announced Dia, a separate AI browser, but Arc Search remains mobile-only.
Does Poke work without an internet connection?
Poke requires an internet connection to process requests via its messaging integrations.
Can Arc Search be used without creating an account?
Yes, Arc Search requires no account. It prioritizes privacy and does not need login.
What messaging apps does Poke support?
Apple Messages (verified), WhatsApp, Telegram (excluding Italy/Brazil), and RCS.
Does Arc Search support extensions?
No, Arc Search is a minimal browser without extensive extension support – it focuses on speed and AI summaries.
What is Poke Recipes?
Poke Recipes are automations that let users set up conditional triggers and actions – they are now generally available (March 2025).
Are there any usage limits on Arc Search?
Arc Search is free with no limits on the 'Browse for Me' feature or other core functions.
Does Poke offer a free trial for Pro or Ultra?
The provided data does not specify a free trial; the free tier is available, and Pro/Ultra are subscription-based.
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Last reviewed: July 3, 2026