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Meta Introduces AI Chatbot Across Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram in India

Meta Introduces AI Chatbot Across Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram in India

Leave a Comment / Artificial Intellegence, Facebook, News, Tech News / By

Meta has announced the formal rollout of its generative Artificial Intelligence (gen AI) chatbot, Meta AI, for users in India. Following successful tests earlier this year, the AI-powered assistant is now being gradually introduced on WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook (including the Messenger app). The complete rollout is expected to be achieved before this weekend, allowing all users across these platforms to access the advanced capabilities of Meta AI.

Introducing Meta AI: A New Digital Assistant

Meta Introduces AI Chatbot Across Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram in India

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Meta AI is powered by the latest iteration of the Large Language Model Meta AI, known as Llama 3. This advanced AI engine enables the chatbot to comprehend complex user queries and provide real-time, easily understandable information. Its capabilities extend beyond basic responses, offering features such as trip planning assistance and text-to-image generation.

For instance, users planning a monsoon getaway can simply mention @Meta AI in a group chat and request a trip itinerary for a specific destination. Within seconds, the chatbot can generate detailed travel plans, suggesting activities, accommodations, and local attractions, making group planning both efficient and enjoyable.

Creative Features: From Digital Art to Fun Memes

One of the standout features of Meta AI is its ability to generate images from text descriptions, powered by the Emu image synthesis model. This Imagine feature allows users to create various forms of digital art effortlessly. Whether it’s designing themed invitations for a child’s birthday party or crafting unique digital artwork, Meta AI makes it easy.

Users can also use Meta AI to generate fun memes or transform ordinary 2D photos into animated or brush-painted artworks. This versatility provides a platform for users to explore their creativity and share their creations instantly on social media.

Impact on User Engagement

The introduction of Meta AI is set to enhance user engagement across Meta’s platforms by providing both functional and creative tools at users’ fingertips. The AI’s ability to deliver tailored travel suggestions, design custom digital art, and facilitate creative social media interactions reflects Meta’s commitment to integrating advanced AI technologies into everyday digital communication.

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As Meta AI continues to roll out across India, users can look forward to exploring its diverse capabilities, making their online interactions more dynamic and enjoyable. The phased introduction ensures a smooth transition, with all users expected to have access to the new AI assistant shortly, promising an enriched digital experience across Meta’s suite of apps.

Instagram Says Longer Reels Can Impact Your Performance

Instagram Says Longer Reels Can Impact Your Performance

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Instagram has issued a critical update for its content creators: posting Reels longer than 90 seconds may negatively impact your reach on the platform. This announcement was made by Instagram’s content team during a creator event held in New York last week.

During the event, Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri, along with other members of the Instagram team, addressed numerous questions about the platform’s algorithms, ongoing projects, and strategies for boosting engagement. The event was attended by prominent creators and industry insiders eager to understand how to maximize their presence on the app.

Shorter Reels, Better Reach

Instagram Says Longer Reels Can Impact Your Performance

Image Source: itp.live

One of the most significant insights shared at the event was related to the optimal length of Instagram Reels. As reported by Kaya Yurieff of The Information, Mosseri and his team presented a slide indicating that Reels exceeding 90 seconds could harm their distribution. This means that creators who routinely post longer Reels might see a decrease in their content’s reach and engagement.

Instagram’s algorithm, which plays a crucial role in content visibility, appears to favor shorter, more concise Reels. This preference likely aligns with user behavior, as shorter videos are often more engaging and easier to consume in the fast-paced social media environment.

Strategic Content Creation

For content creators, this update suggests a strategic shift is necessary. Keeping Reels within the 90-second mark could enhance visibility and audience engagement. This advice is particularly pertinent given the competitive nature of content creation on Instagram, where reach and interaction can significantly influence a creator’s success.

Adam Mosseri’s discussion with creators also touched on other aspects of the platform’s evolving features and tools aimed at enhancing user experience and creator support. However, the emphasis on Reel length stands out as a crucial takeaway for those looking to optimize their content strategy.

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As Instagram continues to refine its platform, staying informed about such updates is essential for creators. Adapting to these guidelines not only aligns with the platform’s algorithm but also meets the evolving preferences of Instagram’s global audience.

In summary, for Instagram creators looking to maximize their reach, keeping Reels under 90 seconds is now a recommended practice. This insight, shared directly from Instagram’s top executives, underscores the importance of understanding and adapting to the platform’s dynamic environment.

EU Investigating Facebook and Instagram Over Their Handling of Disinformation Ahead of the Election

EU Investigating Disinformation on Facebook and Instagram Ahead of Election

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Facebook and Instagram owned by Meta Platforms are being investigated by the European Commission for possible violations of EU online content regulations. EU IT regulators have responded to concerns over misleading advertising and misinformation ahead of the elections to the European Parliament.

Worries Regarding Deceitful Activities

EU Investigating Facebook and Instagram Over Their Handling of Disinformation Ahead of the Election

Image Source: communicationstoday.co.in

Growing worries regarding the dissemination of false information from both internal and external sources are reflected in the actions taken by EU authorities. The EU is concentrating on combating dishonest activities within its borders, especially by political parties and organisations looking to influence voters with misleading material, as Russia, China, and Iran have been identified as possible suppliers of misinformation.

Authority for Regulation: Digital Services Act

The Digital Services Act (DSA), which mandates that large digital companies take more aggressive action against unlawful and damaging information on their networks, provides the basis for the probe. There are severe penalties for breaking DSA commitments; these fines can reach 6% of a company’s yearly global revenue.

Doubts Regarding Meta's Moderation

Margrethe Vestager, the EU’s digital leader, voiced concerns over Meta’s moderation methods, pointing to a lack of transparency and inadequate action in relation to misleading marketing and content moderation processes. In order to evaluate Meta’s compliance with the DSA, the Commission has started procedures. The investigation will concentrate on matters like coordinated inauthentic behaviour and misinformation operations.

Meta's Reaction

With more than 250 million monthly active users throughout the EU, Meta justified its risk mitigation strategy by emphasising the protocols it has put in place for locating and resolving threats on its platforms. The business said that it would be happy to work with the European Commission and share more information about the steps it is taking to reduce risk.

Particular Issues the Commission Has Raised

Ahead of the elections to the European Parliament, the Commission brought up a number of specific concerns, chief among them being the absence of a reliable third-party platform for real-time civic discourse and election monitoring. Furthermore, criticism has been levelled at Meta for its choice to phase down CrowdTangle, its misinformation-tracking tool, without a viable successor.

Next Actions

Five working days have been granted to Meta to notify the EU of the corrective measures implemented in response to the Commission’s concerns. The investigation’s conclusion will have a big impact on Meta’s business operations in the EU and potentially influence future laws that fight false advertising and internet misinformation.

In summary, The EU’s investigation into Meta over claims of misleading advertising and misinformation highlights the need for strong regulatory frameworks to protect the integrity of online material. In order to stop the spread of false information and preserve democratic values in the digital era, regulatory oversight is crucial given the growing influence that digital platforms have on public opinion.

 
TikTok Introduces New App to Compete With Instagram: Social Media Competition Heats Up

TikTok Introduces New App to Compete With Instagram: Social Media Competition Heats Up

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In an unexpected move that has caused a stir across the social media landscape, TikTok has officially announced its plans to launch a new app designed to compete directly with Instagram. This ambitious venture aims to redefine the social media experience, offering users a unique platform that combines innovative content creation tools with a fresh approach to user engagement.

A Bold Move in the Competitive Arena

TikTok Introduces New App to Compete With Instagram: Social Media Competition Heats Up

Image Source: finance.yahoo.com

TikTok, known primarily for its short-form video content, has seen rapid growth over the past few years, attracting audiences around the world with its engaging and innovative content. However, with the unveiling of its new app, TikTok is moving into an area dominated by Instagram, one of the world’s most popular photo-sharing platforms.

A spokesperson for TikTok said at the official announcement event, “This isn’t just an extension; it’s a revolution.” “Our goal is to create a platform that encourages creativity, fosters community, and redefines what social media can be.”

What Sets the New App Apart?

The new app, whose name is yet to be revealed, promises to integrate the best of TikTok’s video capabilities with a new, sophisticated image-sharing ecosystem. It aims to provide users with a more immersive and interactive experience, offering advanced editing tools, augmented reality features, and a highly intuitive user interface.

One of the key features highlighted during the announcement was the app’s focus on community-driven content. TikTok’s goal is to create a platform where users can not only share their lives but also collaborate, create and engage with content in ways that are not currently possible on Instagram.

The Challenge Ahead

While TikTok’s new venture is ambitious, it faces the significant challenge of carving out a niche in a market dominated by established players like Instagram. Instagram, owned by Meta Platforms (formerly Facebook), has a massive global user base and has continuously evolved its features to keep users engaged.

Experts suggest that for TikTok’s new app to be successful, it will need to offer something truly unique and capture the imagination of users looking for an alternative to the Instagram experience.

Potential Impact on the Social Media Landscape

The announcement has sparked a lively debate among technology experts and social media enthusiasts about the potential impact on the social media ecosystem. Some see TikTok’s move as a positive step towards innovation and competition, which could lead to better features and options for users.

Others caution that the success of the new app will depend on a variety of factors, including user privacy, content moderation, and its ability to foster a positive and inclusive community.

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Looking Forward

As the launch date approaches, the tech world is eagerly waiting to see how TikTok’s new app will fare against Instagram. Will it redefine social media, or will it struggle to find its place? Only time will tell, but one thing is clear: the battle for users’ attention in the social media sphere is not over yet.

With this bold move, TikTok has signaled its intention to not only participate in the social media game but lead it. As details of the new app emerge, the world waits with bated breath to watch the next chapter in social media’s ever-evolving story.

Facebook, Instagram and Threads all Shut Down Due to Massive Meta Outage

Facebook, Instagram, and Threads all Shut Down Due to Massive Meta Outage

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In an unexpected turn of events, major social media platforms Facebook, Instagram, and Threads experienced a widespread outage, leaving millions of users disconnected from their digital lives. This global disruption has raised questions about the stability and reliability of relying on centralized platforms for communication and business operations.

The Outage Explained

Facebook, Instagram and Threads all Shut Down Due to Massive Meta Outage

Image Source: cnbc.com

Early reports indicate that the outage began in the late hours of Tuesday, affecting users across multiple continents. Both individual users and businesses reported an inability to access their accounts, post content, or engage with others on the platforms. The cause of the outage has yet to be officially confirmed by Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and Threads.

User Impact and Response

The sudden disconnection left many in a state of confusion and frustration. For a world already deeply integrated with social media for personal communication, entertainment, and business, the absence of these services was keenly felt. Users took to other platforms such as Twitter to share their experiences, seek information, and, in many cases, share humor about the situation.

Business Disruption

Beyond the inconvenience to casual users, the outage has significant implications for businesses and creators who rely on these platforms for marketing, sales, and community engagement. The downtime underscores the vulnerabilities businesses face in a digital-first economy, highlighting the need for diversified communication channels.

Meta's Response

Meta has acknowledged the issue, stating that they are actively working to resolve the outage and restore service as soon as possible. In a brief statement, the company expressed regret for any inconvenience caused to users and assured that updates would follow as more information becomes available.

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Looking Ahead: Implications for Digital Reliance

This incident serves as a critical reminder of the challenges and risks associated with the global community’s heavy reliance on a few dominant platforms for digital communication and commerce. As Meta works to resolve the current outage, the event may spark broader discussions about the need for more resilient digital infrastructure and the role of decentralization in mitigating such risks.

Conclusion

The global outage affecting Facebook, Instagram, and Threads has brought to light the vulnerabilities inherent in our digital ecosystem. As the world waits for a resolution, the incident prompts reflection on our dependence on technology and the importance of safeguarding our digital society against future disruptions.

Meta Will No Longer Suggest Political Content to Users on Instagram, Threads

Meta Will No Longer Suggest Political Content to Users on Instagram, Threads

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In a significant change in policy, Meta has announced that it will no longer recommend political content to users on Instagram and Threads. The decision marks a significant change in how the social media giant handles the intersection of politics and social networking. This article highlights the implications, rationale and potential impacts of this new policy.

The role of social media in shaping political discourse has increased rapidly. Meta, formerly known as Facebook, has been at the center of this growth. However, it has also faced criticism for its handling of political content and misinformation.

Meta's Announcement

Meta Will No Longer Suggest Political Content to Users on Instagram, Threads

Meta has decided to implement a significant policy change on its social media platform, Instagram and Threads, by no longer recommending political content to its users. This strategic move aims to enhance the overall user experience by creating a more neutral and less divisive social media environment. By reducing the visibility of political content, Meta intends to reduce the spread of misinformation and reduce the potential for polarization among its user base. The decision reflects Meta’s commitment to fostering a more positive and engaging online community, while also addressing growing concerns about the role of social media in political discourse and the spread of political misinformation.

Impact on Users

Instagram and Threads are set to significantly change user experiences, aiming for a more peaceful and personalized social media environment. The move is expected to reduce the risk of unwanted political discussions and content, potentially reducing polarization and promoting a more enjoyable online space for users who seek entertainment, personal connections, or interests beyond the political sphere.

Impact on Political Content

Meta’s decision to stop recommending political content on Instagram and threads is expected to reduce the visibility and reach of political messages, impacting the way these are shared and engaged on the platforms. Political entities may need to adjust their strategies to maintain audience engagement without the aid of algorithmic campaigning.

Global Implications

The impact of META’s policy extends beyond the US. This part considers its implications for global political discourse and regional differences. Looking to the future, Meta is likely to introduce more policies and features aimed at improving user experience and combating misinformation.

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Conclusion

Meta’s decision to stop recommending political content on Instagram and Threads is a historic step. This reflects the growing recognition of the role of social media in politics and the need for responsible content curation.