TLDR
- Meta is rolling out AI Studio, allowing users to create custom AI characters
- These AI characters can be used on Instagram, WhatsApp, Messenger, and the web
- Creators can make AI versions of themselves to interact with followers
- The tool is available to users in the US through Instagram or Meta’s website
- AI Studio also allows creation of themed chatbots, similar to existing platforms
Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has introduced a new tool called AI Studio. This platform allows users in the United States to create custom AI characters for use across Meta’s apps, including Instagram, WhatsApp, and Messenger, as well as on the web.
AI Studio, which launched on July 29, 2024, is built on Meta’s Llama 3.1 language model. It offers users the ability to design AI characters based on their interests or to create AI versions of themselves.
These AI characters can perform various tasks, from teaching cooking skills to generating memes or providing travel advice.
For creators and businesses, AI Studio presents an opportunity to extend their reach. By creating an AI version of themselves, they can automate responses to common questions in direct messages and story replies.
This feature aims to help creators connect with more fans while allowing followers to receive quicker responses.
The process of creating an AI character is straightforward. Users can start by visiting ai.meta.com/ai-studio or by tapping “Create an AI chat” when starting a new message on Instagram.
From there, they can customize their AI’s name, personality, tone, avatar, and tagline. Meta has also provided a guide with tips and best practices for users new to AI character creation.
Several creators have already jumped on board with AI Studio. Chef Marc Murphy created an AI that offers tips on local dining customs for travelers. Photographer Angel Barclay’s AI provides advice on choosing the right camera lens. Actor Rocky Kanaka developed an AI dog that gives personalized positive affirmations.
For Instagram creators specifically, the AI can be set up through their professional dashboard. They can control when the AI is active and who it responds to. Importantly, all responses from these AI characters are clearly labeled to maintain transparency with followers.
Meta emphasizes that AI Studio is designed to be accessible to everyone, regardless of technical skills. The company views this as a first step towards democratizing AI creation capabilities.
However, the introduction of AI characters to social media platforms raises questions about authenticity and the nature of online interactions. As AI becomes more prevalent in social spaces, users may need to adapt to a new landscape where not all interactions are with humans.
Meta says it has implemented policies and protections to ensure responsible use of these AI characters. The company aims to keep interactions with AIs “fun and helpful” while maintaining safety standards.
The launch of AI Studio puts Meta in direct competition with other AI chatbot platforms like Character.AI and Replika. It also follows a trend in the tech industry of making AI tools more accessible to the general public.
As AI Studio rolls out across the US, it will be interesting to see how users engage with this new technology and how it might reshape social media interactions in the future.
