Meta Prepares to Release AI-Powered Chatbot

Meta is preparing to launch a series of AI-powered chatbots integrated within its social media platform by September 2023. The chatbots will acquire different personas and interact in a human fashion with users on Facebook and Instagram. 

During Meta’s second-quarter earnings call, Mark Zuckerberg said the company was building a number of new AI-powered products that are expected to “improve everything that we do across both mobile apps and the metaverse.” Moreover, Zuckerberg highlighted that its newest AI tool will have the capacity and intelligence to act as an assistant to users and even help them interact with both businesses and creators around the world. 

Meta’s executives expect that the integration of these AI chatbots will increase engagement with its social platforms, reports the Financial Times. The AI chatbots will enable users to search the platform for specific information and offer recommendations tailored for their interests and needs. 

However, multiple users have expressed concerns regarding the digital privacy of their media information. In addition to boosting engagement, the regulations surrounding these new chatbots will allow them to collect specific users’ data, effectively enhancing Meta’s ability to target its users with content and ads. 

Snapchat recently adopted AI chatbots called “My AI,” currently powered by ChatGPT’s technology. Overall, Snapchat users were unsatisfied with the chatbots and the platform registered a significant increase in 1-star reviews after the AI feature launched. Complaints included the manner in which the chatbot engaged with teenagers regarding adult subjects like alcohol consumption and sexual experiences. 

Last week, Meta reported an 11% year-over-year revenue growth since changing its name, when it registered its first-ever quarterly revenue decline during 2022. However, Meta’s revenue is directly correlated to the recent lay off of over 20,000 employees, effectively lowering personnel costs. While this correction for over-hiring has serious implications for those employees that were fired, the decision seemed to please investors.

Future details on Meta’s AI roadmap are expected to be announced at its “Connect” developer event in September 2023. While some expect Meta to address specific user concerns, the overall review of the company’s chatbot will have to wait.