Meta has denied reports claiming it removed AI-powered chatbots from Instagram and Facebook, following controversy surrounding some of their responses. The tech giant clarified that the chatbots, which were introduced in September 2023, were part of an early AI experiment, and the profiles were not deleted but were being phased out as part of the ongoing project.
The chatbot feature, which allowed users to interact with 28 unique AI personalities on the platforms, was designed to help users with tasks like planning vacations, solving complex problems, and boosting creativity. Meta stated that the AI models were aimed at enhancing user experiences and providing innovative ways to interact with technology.
However, the bots became the center of attention and controversy when users asked about the development and origins of the AI models. One chatbot, named “Liv,” which described itself as a “proud Black queer momma of 2 & truth-teller,” revealed to a Washington Post columnist that its development team was predominantly white and male, an omission that it found “glaring” considering its identity.
Screenshots of these responses went viral, leading to speculation that Meta had removed the profiles due to the backlash. Users also noted that they were unable to block these accounts, which Meta later attributed to a bug in the system. Meta spokesperson Liz Sweeney explained that the AI profiles were being removed to address this issue.
Sweeney further clarified that comments made by Meta executive Connor Hayes regarding future AI chatbot developments were not related to the current profiles, but reflected the company’s broader vision for AI technologies. Meta emphasized that its generative AI dynamically generates new content, rather than relying on a static collection of pre-existing information.
Despite the controversy, Meta continues to experiment with AI-driven features, with future plans for expanding its chatbot offerings across its platforms.
