Meta has decided to retire its celebrity-styled AI chatbots, less than a year after their launch. These bots, modeled after celebrities like Kendall Jenner and Charli D’Amelio, failed to generate significant interest. The core issue is that these bots do not align with the fundamental social and human elements of Meta’s platforms, Facebook and Instagram, which thrive on real human connections and interactions.
Key Points
- Initial Launch and Reception: Meta launched AI chatbots styled after celebrities in September, but they did not create the expected buzz.
- Decision to Retire: Meta has quietly taken these bots offline, moving away from the concept.
- Core Issue: The bots contradict the essence of social media, which is built on human connections and real interactions. Users prefer engaging with real people, including celebrities, rather than bot versions.
- Historical Context: This isn't the first time Meta has misjudged the appeal of bots. A similar initiative with Messenger Bots in 2016 also failed to gain traction.
- Current Direction: Despite this, Meta continues to push its Meta AI chatbot and has launched a new platform for creators to build their own bot versions.
- Future of AI in Meta: While generative AI may have a place in Meta’s broader metaverse vision, AI-based chatbots within social media apps are unlikely to become popular.
Meta's significant investment in advanced technology suggests a long-term vision, but AI chatbots do not seem to fit the social media landscape.
