Instagram is reportedly working on a new feature that would let users create a customized artificial intelligence (AI)-powered chatbot.
The feature from the social media platform aims to provide users with a personalized AI chatbot that can engage in conversations, answer questions and offer support, TechCrunch reported Wednesday (Nov. 1), citing screenshots shared by app researcher Alessandro Paluzzi.
Instagram’s parent company, Meta, did not immediately reply to PYMNTS’ request for comment.
The screenshots revealed that users will have the ability to personalize the AI chatbot’s gender, age, ethnicity, personality and interests, according to the report.
By allowing users to customize their AI chatbot’s characteristics, Instagram aims to create a more personalized and engaging environment for its users, with the chatbot able to serve as a companion, providing assistance, guidance and even acting as a sounding board for ideas, the report said.
After customizing the AI chatbot, users would be able to name it, give it an avatar and then converse with it in a chat window, per the report.
As the feature is in development, it may change or never be launched, the report said.
Instagram parent Meta introduced and began rolling out 28 new AI-powered personas in September, saying each of the chatbots has its own personality and interests. Some are based on cultural icons and influencers, such as a dance enthusiast based on Charli D’Amelio and a pro golfer based on Chris Paul.
The AI chatbots will interact with users via Meta’s messaging platforms — Instagram, Messenger and WhatsApp — and will have their own social profiles on Facebook and Instagram.
“Our journey with AIs is just beginning, and it isn’t purely about building AIs that only answer questions,” Meta said when introducing the chatbots. “We’ve been creating AIs that have more personality, opinions and interests, and are a bit more fun to interact with.”
With the launch of these AI chatbots with distinct personalities, including those of celebrities and creators, Meta is looking to draw younger consumers to its platforms. Younger consumers have been a priority for Meta as it has seen teenagers flock to TikTok instead of its own platforms.
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