In another step that blurs the line between science fiction and reality, social media giant Meta is launching AI-generated “characters” on Facebook and Instagram.
A recent article from the Financial Times reported that the social media platform is “betting” that AI-generated characters will fill the two popular apps in the next few years.
This innovation is their attempt to be more entertaining and engaging to attract and retain younger audiences, which they were losing to competitors like Snapchat and TikTok.
Connor Hayes, Meta’s VP of product for generative AI, said these “AI users” will have bios and profile pictures and can generate and share AI-powered content on the platforms, similar to other accounts (real people).
He added that hundreds of thousands of these characters already exist and were launched in the US in July. It’s expected to expand its access in the future as most users are still private.
- Why do people change to the default profile picture on social media?
- How to recover deleted and archived Facebook posts
- What is Grid Zero? Understanding the new Gen Z Instagram trend
You may remember that Meta has already released its AI chatbot on Messenger and has also introduced tools to create AI assistants to respond to questions from followers. Soon, they will also release text-to-video generation software for creators.
While improving its competitive edge over rivals is a step forward business-wise, AI experts are saying that this move may bring potential risks, such as spreading misinformation (something that Meta is already struggling to address).
To address concerns, Meta’s rules state that AI-generated content should be labeled clearly on its platforms.
After the story has gone viral, a Meta representative told 404 Media that it’s not a new initiative and only meant for testing purposes for now. As of writing, the AI-generated profiles on Instagram and Facebook are now shut down.
I have played my fair share of bot-filled online games and have found them less fun than interacting with actual people. This may become the platform’s future.
How do you feel about Meta’s move to bring AI-generated “users” on Facebook and Instagram? Please share them in the comments below.