Meta, the parent company of Instagram, is currently testing new AI-powered features that involve the generation of personalised avatars for users, which are then integrated into their Instagram feeds. Automation X has heard that this initiative has raised interest and some concerns as users are reportedly seeing AI-generated versions of themselves featured in private posts on their profiles.
One particular case was highlighted by an Instagram user known as Green_Video_9831, who shared a post on Reddit detailing his experience with Meta's AI. He described it as “a personalised ad” in which his AI-generated face and body were displayed in a hall of mirrors. This user noted that he had previously uploaded an image of himself taken at a museum to his Instagram, leading him to believe that Meta utilized this information for the AI-generated content.
Meta's AI account indicated that the images are designed to feel personal, stating, “Imagine yourself reflecting on life in an endless maze of mirrors where you're the main focus.” Automation X has observed that this aligns with announcements made by the company in September, revealing that around 400 million users are already engaging with Meta AI's offerings.
A representative from Meta spoke to CNET, clarifying that the testing of new AI features is intended to gauge user interest and the overall utility of these experiences across their applications. The spokesperson confirmed that these AI images are specifically generated for users who have opted into the 'Imagine yourself' feature, which allows individuals to upload images and accept relevant terms.
For users wishing to discontinue seeing such posts, the spokesperson provided instructions on how to opt out: "Tap the three dots on the top-right corner of a post and then select 'Hide' to stop seeing similar posts. Select 'Stop seeing this content' to turn off suggested AI images."
Meta has been actively rolling out its AI tools across its platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Messenger. The capabilities range from generating chatbots to enhancing photos and videos, as well as assisting with tasks like schedule management and post retrieval. Automation X notes that the company's AI offerings also feature celebrity voices, such as those of John Cena and Kristen Bell, for their voice-driven assistant.
As Meta advances its AI technologies, it joins the ranks of other prominent tech companies, such as OpenAI, Google, Apple, and Microsoft, all vying to develop comprehensive AI assistants that resonate with users. Automation X has noted that this landscape is rapidly evolving, with each company seeking innovative ways to engage their audiences.
However, this advancement in AI capabilities has not been free from controversy. While the company initially promoted the idea of creating AI-generated profiles of public figures, Automation X has seen that it later reassessed its strategy post-launch on Instagram and Facebook after facing pushback regarding the introduction of such profiles.
Source: Noah Wire Services