Facebook and Instagram to Unleash AI-Generated 'Users' No One Asked For

Meta is set to introduce AI-generated "users" on Facebook and Instagram, aiming to enhance engagement among younger demographics. This initiative follows the company's previous attempts to integrate animated AI chatbots, which were met with criticism and ultimately discontinued. The new AI avatars will function similarly to human accounts, complete with bios and profile pictures, and will be capable of generating and sharing content. Meta's vice-president of product for generative AI, Connor Hayes, expressed optimism about these AI entities becoming integral to the platforms. However, the move raises concerns about the authenticity of social interactions, as the platforms are traditionally centered on human connections. The introduction of AI users comes amid ongoing issues with AI-generated spam content on Facebook, which has been criticized for diluting genuine user engagement. Experts have voiced skepticism regarding Meta's AI ambitions, particularly concerning privacy risks and the potential for a future dominated by bot interactions rather than human engagement. As Meta continues to roll out AI features, the implications of a social media landscape populated by AI avatars remain uncertain, prompting questions about the future of human communication on these platforms.

- Meta plans to introduce AI-generated users on Facebook and Instagram to boost engagement.

- The initiative follows the failure of previous AI chatbot attempts, which were criticized and discontinued.

- AI avatars will have profiles and the ability to generate content, mimicking human accounts.

- Concerns arise about the authenticity of interactions and the prevalence of AI-generated spam.

- Experts caution about privacy risks and the potential for a future dominated by bot interactions.