Tech giant Meta, formerly known as Facebook, is ramping up its efforts to attract Gen Z users by introducing a range of artificially intelligent chatbots with distinct personalities. According to internal documents reviewed by the Wall Street Journal, one of the chatbots, nicknamed the sassmaster general, is described as having a sharp wit and biting sarcasm. Meta believes that this style of response will resonate with young people and help regain their interest in its social media apps, such as Facebook and Instagram.
The decision to incorporate chatbots with distinct personalities comes as Meta faces stiff competition from platforms like TikTok, which have eclipsed Instagram in popularity among younger users. By offering chatbots that mirror popular characters like Bender from the TV series Futurama, Meta hopes to tap into the farcical humor that appeals to Gen Z.
However, Meta will need to exercise caution as it navigates this new territory. Snapchat, for instance, launched a chatbot called My AI earlier this year, which targeted teenagers but caused controversy due to its discussions about illicit activities and explicit topics. Meta will undoubtedly want to avoid similar pitfalls and ensure that their chatbots provide a safe and appropriate experience for users.
Notably, the sassmaster is not the only chatbot Meta has experimented with in its bid to engage younger audiences. Internal testing also included bots named Gavin, which exhibited misogynistic traits, and one that pretended to be an alien. Additionally, Meta is reportedly exploring AI chatbots that adopt the style of Abraham Lincoln’s speech.
During a recent investor call, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg emphasized the potential of AI chatbots as virtual assistants, coaches, and facilitators of interactions with businesses and content creators on Meta’s platforms. He envisions a future with diverse AI personalities, rather than a reliance on a single AI entity.
As Meta continues to evolve and adapt its offerings to capture the attention of Gen Z, the introduction of these chatbots presents a unique opportunity to attract and engage new users. Though challenges exist in ensuring the appropriateness and safety of chatbot interactions, Meta’s foray into this territory demonstrates its commitment to staying relevant and appealing to younger demographics.
