WhatsApp for Android is reportedly in the process of testing a new artificial intelligence feature that enables users to design personalized AI chatbots. According to a feature tracker, Meta is currently rolling out this capability to a select group of beta testers, with the expectation that it will become available to additional users in the coming weeks. This new functionality has already been implemented on Instagram and Messenger, allowing users to define the purpose, personality, and even visual appearance of their chatbot. After creation, users can engage in private conversations with their AI bot.
WhatsApp Could Facilitate the Creation and Interaction with AI Bots
The feature tracker WABetaInfo has reported that Meta is introducing its AI Studio-powered chatbot creation feature to WhatsApp. This new option was identified in the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.18.4 update, which is accessible via the Play Store. With this update, a select group of beta testers has gained access to the “Create an AI” functionality.
An image shared by the feature tracker suggests that the custom AI chatbot creation process on WhatsApp closely resembles that of Instagram and Messenger. Users will find this new option within a dedicated AI Studio tab, which also includes pre-existing chatbots for interaction.
To create a chatbot, users must first compose a prompt detailing its intended role and purpose, with the option to elaborate using up to 1,000 characters. Following this, users will select personality traits for the AI, with recommendations based on the initial description, while also having the freedom to input their own traits. Additionally, users need to define the chatbot’s role, with options such as helper, mentor, or teacher among the examples provided.
Next, users can choose an avatar for their chatbot, with WhatsApp offering suggestions based on the information submitted. Users also have the flexibility to modify the chosen image or create a new avatar using text prompts. Upon completing these steps, the AI Studio will generate the custom AI chatbot for users to interact with.
It remains uncertain whether users will have the ability to share their AI chatbots with the broader community; however, given that users on Instagram and Messenger can do so, it is a possibility. WABetaInfo indicated that more beta testers will be able to utilize this feature in the forthcoming weeks, but there has been no announcement regarding a timeline for a full rollout to all users.
