An AI SMS chatbot is transforming how businesses connect with their customers. Automating text conversations, it allows you to reply faster, handle inquiries 24/7, and deliver personalized experiences—all through simple text messages.

Whether you’re managing customer support, sending updates, or running marketing campaigns, SMS AI streamlines communication and helps you stay ahead in today’s fast-paced world. In this tutorial, we’ll walk you through how to set up and use SMS AI to take your messaging to the next level.

What are SMS AI chatbots?

SMS AI is an artificial intelligence-powered assistant designed to manage and automate customer interactions through text messaging. These AI systems, often called SMS chatbots, can handle customer support, answer common inquiries, send reminders, and even assist with personalized promotions—all via SMS.

Think of it as ChatGPT-powered AI assistants that can handle customer support through SMS. Integrating these bots helps businesses improve business conversions and productivity.

Benefits for businesses

SMS AI chatbots are a game-changer for small businesses looking to improve communication and customer service. Here’s why:

• Faster Responses: AI chatbots reply instantly, ensuring customers don’t have to wait. Quick replies enhance satisfaction and boost engagement.
• 24/7 Availability: Unlike human agents, SMS AI works around the clock, handling inquiries anytime, even during off-hours.
• Cost-Effective: Automating text interactions reduces the need for large support teams, saving resources while maintaining quality service.
• Scalable Support: Whether it’s a handful or thousands of customers messaging at once, SMS AI can handle the volume without breaking a sweat.
• Personalized Experiences: AI can craft tailored responses based on customer preferences or past interactions, making the conversation more engaging.

In short, SMS AI makes it easier to stay connected, responsive, and efficient—all through a channel that customers already love.

How to build your AI SMS Chatbot

Step 1: Sign up for a free Zekyaa account

We’re going to use the Zekyaa platform to create AI assistants and connect with a phone number.

Sign up for a Zekyaa account. You will need to upgrade your account to at least a starter account to buy a phone number and connect to a phone number.

Step 2: Create an AI assistant

Login to the Zekyaa dashboard. You will land on the dashboard page. Then click on Assistants > Create Assistant.

Then create write instructions in the prompt section. Give it a thorough instruction. Name the assistant, and select settings as follows. Save the assistant.

Then you can chat with it to test how it reacts.

Step 3: Buy a new phone number

Once you’re happy with the assistant’s performance, it’s time to connect it with a phone number.

Click on Phone Numbers. Then click on the buy number.

Next you need to add an area code, select your number, give it a name under the label, and then click on Buy Number.

Step 4: Connect the number to the AI assistant

Purchased numbers will show on the Phone Numbers tab. Now you can assign an assistant for the phone number purchased.

Select the recently created assistant from the drop-down. From now on, this selected AI assistant will answer every message that comes to this phone number.

Step 5: Test the assistant

Finally, you can test the number to see if everything works properly. Text the recently purchased phone number from your personal device.

Use cases of AI SMS chatbots

SMS AI is a powerful tool for small businesses, enabling them to provide efficient and responsive customer support across various industries. Here’s how it works in different sectors:

1. Retail and E-commerce

• Order Tracking: Provide instant updates on order status and delivery timelines.
• Returns and Refunds: Assist customers with initiating returns or understanding refund policies.
• FAQs: Answer common questions about products, payment methods, or shipping.

2. Restaurants and Food Services

• Reservation Support: Confirm and modify table bookings automatically.
• Order Assistance: Help customers check the status of their takeout or delivery orders.
• General Inquiries: Respond to questions about menu items or dietary restrictions.

3. Healthcare and Wellness

• Appointment Management: Confirm, reschedule, or cancel appointments seamlessly.
• Service Information: Provide details about procedures, office hours, or insurance coverage.
• Follow-Up Questions: Answer patient inquiries post-visit or after a procedure.

4. Real Estate

• Property Information: Share details about listings, such as pricing and availability.
• Tour Scheduling: Help clients book and confirm property tours.
• Inquiry Handling: Respond to questions about financing or neighborhood details.

5. Salons and Spas

• Appointment Confirmation: Notify clients about upcoming bookings or rescheduling options.
• Service Queries: Answer questions about available treatments or prices.
• Customer Feedback: Handle inquiries related to post-service issues.

6. Fitness Studios and Gyms

• Class Scheduling: Assist members with booking or canceling classes.
• Membership Support: Provide details about memberships, upgrades, or freezes.
• FAQs: Answer questions about gym hours, trainer availability, or equipment.

With SMS AI, businesses in these industries can provide faster, consistent, and more reliable support, ensuring customers feel valued and supported at every touchpoint.

Frequently Asked Questions