Meta is introducing a new feature where AI chatbots initiate conversations first. This feature allows chatbots to start a conversation without a user having to make a request or ask a question. Meta is developing this under an internal strategy called ‘Project Omni.’
Project Omni is a technology development initiative by Meta aimed at increasing user engagement and time spent on its social media platforms. The company plans to enable AI chatbots to send friendly messages like, “What movies have you seen lately?” However, this feature is not available to all users. It is only activated for those who have interacted with the chatbot at least five times in the past 14 days.
The new chatbot surpasses simple response machines. For example, a movie recommendation chatbot might refer back to a soundtrack recently mentioned to continue the conversation. It is designed to remember previous conversations and engage in discussions that reflect the user’s interests.
Each chatbot has a unique personality and can specialize in topics such as movies, sports, and health, providing personalized responses to users. However, it is programmed to not discuss controversial topics without user consent.
To prevent messages from feeling like spam, there are strict conditions for when a chatbot can send the first message. It applies only when there has been interaction at least five times in the past 14 days. If there is no response from the user afterward, the chatbot will send only one more message attempt before stopping further attempts to initiate a conversation.
Alignerr’s reviewers pre-screen messages to ensure their appropriateness, and AI chatbots are programmed to avoid emotionally sensitive subjects or topics that might cause controversy.
Meta emphasizes that this feature can go beyond simply boosting engagement to facilitate meaningful conversations. A company representative explained, “Even when users are alone, this feature could serve as a tool to alleviate loneliness by allowing them to continue conversations with AI chatbots.” In the past, CEO Mark Zuckerberg described it as a potential solution to the ‘epidemic of loneliness.’
While this function of chatbots initiating conversation first is still in its initial stages, Meta is experimenting with how AI technology can contribute to everyday human dialogue. Meta anticipates generating $3 billion in revenue from generative AI technology by 2025 and up to $1.4 trillion by 2035.