Meta Expands Access to AI Chatbot for Indian Users
Meta, the parent company of Facebook, has made its AI chatbot, Meta AI, accessible to all users in India. The Llama-3-powered chatbot was initially tested in India during the general elections and is now available on WhatsApp, Facebook, Messenger, Instagram, and the meta.ai website.
What is Meta AI Chatbot?
Meta AI is an AI chatbot developed by Meta’s AI research division, Llama. The chatbot uses advanced AI technology to provide users with an interactive and engaging experience. Meta AI can suggest recipes, plan workouts, help write emails, summarize text, and even generate images based on user prompts.
General Capabilities
Chatbots like OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Google’s Gemini, and Anthropic’s Claude are similar to Meta AI in how they work. It can help people with different jobs, answer their questions, and make suggestions. Because it can make pictures, Meta AI goes one step further and provides a more immersive and visual experience.
Platform-Specific Features
On Instagram, the chatbot can tell users about Reels to watch based on what they look for. People on Facebook will see a Meta AI message in their feeds that lets them ask questions about the post. On WhatsApp, users can talk to Meta AI one-on-one or ask for its help in a group chat to plan a trip or choose a movie.
Image Generation
One notable feature of Meta AI is its ability to generate images based on user prompts. However, during testing, TechCrunch found that the chatbot had a tendency to add turbans when generating images of Indian men and consistently generated an old-school Indian house with vibrant colors, wooden columns, and styled roofs. While Meta said it was constantly updating its models, it’s unclear if the company had made any changes in these areas.
Availability and Access Points
Meta AI is now available to all users in India through the search bar within Meta’s apps and the meta.ai website. Along with English, there are plans to support local languages in the future.
Impact on the Indian Market
Meta AI’s availability in India can significantly impact the market by enhancing user engagement, supporting digital literacy, and benefiting local businesses.
Enhancing User Engagement
With Meta AI’s capabilities, users in India can enjoy a more interactive and engaging experience on Meta’s platforms. The chatbot’s ability to suggest Reels on Instagram and answer questions related to Facebook posts can keep users engaged for longer periods.
Supporting Digital Literacy
Meta AI can help support digital literacy in India by providing users with a virtual assistant that can assist them in various tasks. This can help bridge the digital divide and empower users to make the most of the digital world.
Benefits for Local Businesses
Meta AI can also benefit local businesses in India by providing them with a powerful tool to engage with their customers. With the chatbot’s ability to summarize text, answer questions, and provide recommendations, businesses can use Meta AI to improve their customer service and engagement.
In conclusion, Meta’s expansion of access to its AI chatbot in India is a significant development that can enhance user engagement, support digital literacy, and benefit local businesses. By leveraging Meta AI’s capabilities, users in India can enjoy a more interactive and engaging experience on Meta’s platforms.
