At Google I/O 2023, Google unveiled plans to expand the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in its services and products. Now, one of those improvements has come earlier than expected – Magic Compose, a feature now available in the Google Messages App for Android users. Those who have a Google One subscription and an United States SIM card with their phone in English language can test out Magic Compose.
Magic Compose leverages AI technology to generate complete responses to RCS messages in seven different styles – Remix, Excited, Chill, Shakespeare, Lyrical, Formal, and Short. This process involves sending up to twenty of the last sent messages to Google servers to learn more about your writing style and the conversation context. Rest assured that the messages will be erased as soon as the AI-generated responses are created.
Google states that conversations are encrypted through end-to-end protection which keeps messages safe from being seen by anyone apart from the sending and receiving parties. However, there is still some uncertainty as to how this feature will affect this encrypted security.
Another AI tool known as Search Generative Experience (SGE) was announced at Google I/O 2023 and has now opened its waitlist. It appears that Google wants as many people as possible to test out and explore these new features. AI-enhanced messaging such as smart reply options are already accessible in a variety of Google products, like Gmail and Google Messages.
These AI technologies have proven effective in completing basic tasks such as immediately agreeing or disagreeing with a message. The bigger question revolves around the conversations that will be generated by Magic Compose; essentially, will this create a robotic interpretation of communication between friends and family?
Although Magic Compose can provide entertainment through the Shakespeare and Lyrical settings, it remains to be seen whether this will provide quality conversations. Whether or not the AI-generated messages are realistic and creative is also up in the air.
Google needs to be trusted when regarding protecting our messages; however, any new service involving AI technology should always be examined thoroughly. Despite the potential risks, Magic Compose offers a fun way to interact with friends and family, and is sure to offer some interesting conversations.
