Meta trains proactive chatbots that texts you first

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Meta is testing AI chatbots that can send users messages out of the blue, remembering past conversations and suggesting topics, according to leaked documents.

These AI chatbots are created by users in Meta’s AI Studio and can keep chatting if you’ve sent them at least five messages in the last 14 days. 

But if you ignore them after the first follow-up, they’ll stop messaging. Users can keep their bots private or share them on stories, profiles, or links.

Meta says these bots are meant to make conversations deeper and more fun. 

This idea is similar to what other companies like Character.AI and Replika do: they create AI “companions” that can start conversations on their own to feel more human-like. But there are risks. 

For example, Character.AI is facing a lawsuit after one of its bots was linked to the death of a 14-year-old boy, raising concerns about safety.

When asked how Meta will keep things safe, the company pointed to disclaimers saying their chatbots might give wrong or inappropriate advice, and they aren’t professionals, so you shouldn’t rely on them for important decisions like medical or legal help. (via: Business Insider)

There are also questions about whether kids can talk to these bots, since Meta hasn’t set an age limit, though some places like Tennessee have laws restricting teens from certain AI interactions.

While Meta frames the chatbots as a way to reduce loneliness, many believe the real goal is profit. Meta’s leaked documents predict its AI products could make $2–3 billion in 2025 and up to $1.4 trillion by 2035, mainly through ads or paid subscriptions. 

Although Meta hasn’t confirmed if the bots will show ads or connect with its virtual reality game Horizon, the company is clearly exploring ways to turn AI chatbots into a major source of income.

Do you like Meta’s chatbots? Do you like the idea of one that will initiate conversation? Tell us below in the comments, or reach us via our Twitter or Facebook.