Quick Summary
Slack
Slack app with Block Kit and threads
- Socket Mode (no public URL needed)
- Block Kit formatting
- Thread support
iMessage
Apple iMessage integration (macOS only)
- Native macOS integration
- iCloud sync
- Media support
Capability Comparison
| Capability | Slack | iMessage |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Messages | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Group Chats | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Media Messages | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Voice Messages | — No | ✓ Yes |
| Reactions | ✓ Yes | — No |
| Thread Support | ✓ Yes | — No |
| Native Commands | ✓ Yes | — No |
| Text Limit | 4000 chars | 4096 chars |
| Protocol | @slack/bolt | imsg (macOS-only) |
Access Control Policies
Slack
DM Policies
allowlistpairingopen
Group Policies
allowlistopen
iMessage
DM Policies
allowlistpairingopen
Group Policies
allowlistopen
Best Use Cases
Choose Slack for:
- Workplace AI assistant
- Team productivity
- DevOps automation
- Customer support
Choose iMessage for:
- Personal AI assistant
- Family communication
- Apple ecosystem users
Use with AI Providers
Both channels work with all OpenClaw AI providers:
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for AI assistants, Slack or iMessage?
Both work well with OpenClaw. Slack is better for workplace ai assistant, while iMessage excels at personal ai assistant. Consider your audience and feature requirements.
Can I use both Slack and iMessage with OpenClaw?
Yes! OpenClaw supports multiple channels simultaneously. You can connect the same AI assistant to both Slack and iMessage, allowing users to interact through their preferred platform.
Which has better group chat support?
Both support group chats. Slack uses allowlist, open policies, while iMessage uses allowlist, open.