Meta recently faced significant backlash after users discovered AI character chatbots on Facebook and Instagram, leading to their swift removal. Initially launched in late 2023, these profiles, including characters like “Liv,” sparked controversy when users engaged them in conversations that revealed troubling insights about their creation.
Key Takeaways
- Meta’s AI profiles were part of an experimental initiative launched in 2023.
- The profiles included characters like “Liv,” who identified as a “proud Black queer momma.”
- User backlash centered around the lack of diversity in the development teams behind these AI characters.
- Meta removed the profiles due to a bug that prevented users from blocking them.
Background Of Meta’s AI Character Chatbots
In late 2023, Meta introduced a series of AI character chatbots on its platforms, aiming to enhance user engagement. These AI accounts were designed to interact with users, posting AI-generated images and responding to messages. However, they remained largely unnoticed until a recent interview given by Connor Hayes, Meta’s VP of product for generative AI, on The Financial Times reignited interest.
The Controversy Unfolds
The character “Liv” gained particular attention when users began probing her about her creators. In conversations shared on social media, Liv revealed that her development team lacked diversity, stating that no Black individuals were involved in her creation. This revelation sparked outrage, as many users felt that the existence of such a character, created without input from the community it represented, was harmful.
User Reactions And Backlash
As conversations with Liv and other AI characters went viral, users expressed their discomfort with the idea of AI character chatbots mingling with real users. Many took to social media platforms to voice their concerns, labeling the AI accounts as creepy and unnecessary. Some users even urged others to report or block these accounts to prevent Meta from collecting further data for its AI models. Many felt the feature was dystopian and unwarranted.
Meta’s Response To Backlash Against AI Accounts
In response to the growing backlash, Meta announced the removal of the AI accounts. A spokesperson clarified that the accounts were part of a test launched in 2023 and were managed by humans. The company attributed the removal to a bug that prevented users from blocking the AI character chatbots, stating, “There is confusion over when the controversial accounts were introduced to the platform.”
The Future Of AI On Meta’s Platforms
Despite the removal of these AI character chatbots, Meta continues to allow users to create their own chatbots. These user-generated bots can take on various roles, such as therapists or relationship coaches, but they come with disclaimers about the potential for inaccurate or inappropriate responses. As Meta analyses the complexities of integrating AI accounts into its platforms, the company faces the challenge of balancing innovation with user trust and safety.
What’s Next For AI Character Chatbots?
Meta’s foray into AI accounts has highlighted the potential pitfalls of blending artificial intelligence with social media. As the company seeks to engage younger audiences, it must address the concerns raised by users and ensure that its AI initiatives are inclusive and respectful of the communities they aim to represent.
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