MENLO PARK, Calif. (AP) — In an effort to stand out in the crowded artificial intelligence market, Meta Platforms has unveiled a new standalone AI app that incorporates social media features. The Meta AI app, powered by the company’s Llama 4 AI system, includes a ‘Discover’ feed that showcases how users interact with AI, as well as a voice mode for user-AI interaction.
“It’s a smart move for Meta to differentiate its ChatGPT competitor by leveraging its social media heritage,” said Mike Proulx, research director at Forrester. “The app’s Discover feed is reminiscent of the original Facebook Feed, but focused solely on AI use cases.” By allowing users to link their Facebook and Instagram accounts, the Meta AI app gains an edge in personalizing user experience through social media context.
Meta has taken a unique approach to AI by releasing it as an open-source product for free. The company reports that over a billion people use its AI products monthly. At Meta’s inaugural LlamaCon conference, CEO Mark Zuckerberg engaged in a technical discussion with Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella about AI development speed and its impact on their companies and the world.
Acknowledging the “hype” surrounding AI, Zuckerberg emphasized that significant productivity gains should translate to substantial GDP increases. “This will take multiple years, many years, to unfold,” Zuckerberg said. Nadella drew a historical parallel with the advent of electricity, noting that while AI holds promise, realizing its potential requires both software and management changes. Zuckerberg responded, “We’re all investing as if it won’t take 50 years, so I hope it doesn’t.”
Key Features of Meta AI App
- Discover Feed: Shows how others interact with AI
- Voice Mode: Allows voice interaction with AI
- Social Media Integration: Users can link Facebook and Instagram accounts for personalized experience
Meta’s approach to AI has been distinct from its competitors, focusing on open-source development and social media integration. As the AI landscape continues to evolve, Meta’s new app represents a significant step in the company’s AI strategy.
