Meta is set to launch its AI chatbots named 'personas' on Facebook & Instagram

Tech giant Meta, which was formerly known as Facebook, is set to introduce AI-powered chatbots referred to as ‘personas’ into its services, including Facebook and Instagram. The company intends to unveil its AI bots in September 2023, a timeline that is notably ahead of previous expectations.

These AI-driven chatbots will offer users a fresh way to interact with the platforms, providing recommendations, answers, and engagement in distinctive personalities. The move is seen as a strategic response to competition from tech platforms and a showcase of Meta's AI capabilities against rivals like Microsoft-backed OpenAI and Google's Bard.

Diverse AI personalities for enhanced engagement

Sources within Meta have revealed that the coming launch of AI ‘personas’ or chatbots, is aimed at elevating user engagement across its services.

According to a report, Meta is looking at chatbots that mimic Abraham Lincoln's speech patterns and another that offers trip suggestions in the manner of a surfer. These chatbots' functions will include new search functionality and suggestion giving. This innovation is anticipated to add a novel dimension to user interactions and boost the company's competitive stance.

Mark Zuckerberg's vision of AI integration

Meta's CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, has long championed the integration of AI personas into the company's offerings. Earlier this year, he unveiled plans to establish a dedicated product group focused on generative AI.

Zuckerberg envisions AI chatbots aiding users in various contexts, from text-based exchanges to multimedia interactions. He mentioned that Meta is harnessing its advanced LLaMA (large language model) to develop these capabilities.

A sense of worry

The upcoming introduction of AI-powered chatbots offers hope for those looking for lively and interesting conversations on the site. The reports noted that these chatbots, however, might additionally provide useful user information, perhaps increasing ad targeting efforts. While Meta emphasises a positive user experience, some express worries about the consequences for data privacy.

Anticipation of Instagram's AI chatbot

The ‘Connect developer event’ in September is scheduled to reveal further information on Meta's AI agenda and efforts. Users and industry experts eagerly anticipate a look into the future of interactive and AI-enhanced social media experiences as the company continues to develop in the AI space.

Previously, Snap, a competitor in the social media space, tried using AI chatbots for sponsored content. Could the latest information regarding Meta's upcoming launch of its AI chatbot indicate that all the platforms associated with Meta are also getting ready to roll out their own AI chatbot?