Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta, announced today that the company would begin to feature AI characters created by creators through Meta AI studio on Instagram. The test will begin in the U.S.
Zuck said these AI helpers would be clearly labeled as not being real people. They may appear in messaging first during this initial beta test. A few famous creators like the account Wasted and tech teacher Don Allen Stevenson III helped launch the first versions.
Users can chat with these AI bots to get info about memes or learn new tech skills. Meta wants every artist and small business to eventually make their own bot too. This could help influencers connect with fans and companies assist shoppers.
While the AI may improve over time, Zuck admits making bots feel natural is still new ground. Meta unveiled its AI studio last year for businesses to build customer service agents.
By giving content makers tools to craft AI, Meta hopes to enhance Instagram with helpful virtual helpers. As TikTok grows in popularity, engaging chatbots provide another way to keep users invested in the Meta family of apps. Only available internally for now, the test’s success may see AI assistants become a common sight on Instagram.