Meta develops AI chatbots to retain users, according to Financial Times.

Meta develops AI chatbots to retain users, according to Financial Times.

Meta Platforms to Launch AI-Powered Chatbots with Different Personalities

Meta Platforms

Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook, is set to revolutionize the chatbot industry with the introduction of a diverse range of artificial intelligence (AI) powered chatbots, each with their unique personalities. This exciting development is expected to be launched as early as September, according to sources familiar with the company’s plans.

In an effort to enhance engagement on its social media platforms, Meta has been diligently designing prototypes of chatbots capable of engaging users in human-like conversations. These chatbots will provide a new search function, as well as offer personalized recommendations to users.

The innovation of Meta’s chatbots extends beyond basic functionality, as the company intends to infuse them with distinct and amusing personalities. For example, one chatbot is said to speak in the style of former U.S. President Abraham Lincoln, while another will advise users on travel options, adopting the laid-back and carefree persona of a surfer. This creative approach not only adds an extra layer of entertainment value but also seeks to establish a stronger connection between users and the platform.

Meta’s foray into chatbots comes at a time when the company is focusing on improving retention rates for its new text-based app, Threads. Following its launch on July 5, Threads experienced a significant decline in users. However, Meta is determined to address this issue by introducing chatbots that can captivate users and encourage them to engage with the platform more frequently.

While Meta declined to comment on the Financial Times report regarding the chatbot plans, the company has recently reported a surge in advertising revenue during its latest earnings call. The social media giant also forecasted higher-than-expected revenue for the third quarter, indicating a positive trajectory for the company.

This strategic move by Meta aligns with its ongoing efforts to regain momentum after a challenging year. In 2022, the company faced various obstacles but has since rebounded through a combination of leveraging cutting-edge AI technology and implementing a series of cost-cutting measures. By shedding approximately 21,000 employees since last fall, Meta has been able to streamline its operations and focus on innovation and growth.

Additionally, Meta has recently introduced Llama 2, a new version of its open-source artificial intelligence model. Llama 2 is geared towards commercial use and will be distributed by Microsoft through its Azure cloud service, operating on the Windows platform. This collaboration further solidifies Meta’s commitment to advancing AI technology and expanding its influence in the market.

It is worth noting that Meta is not the only tech giant venturing into the field of AI chatbots. Bloomberg News reported in July that Apple is developing its own AI offerings similar to OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google’s Bard. Apple’s internal framework, dubbed ‘Ajax’, aims to create large language models, with engineers already testing a chatbot internally referred to as ‘Apple GPT’.

The competition in the AI chatbot space is heating up, and Meta’s introduction of chatbots with distinct personalities demonstrates its commitment to innovation and user engagement. As users eagerly await the launch of these entertaining and intelligent chatbots, it is clear that Meta Platforms is determined to shape the future of social media interaction.