WhatsApp for Android is reportedly in the testing phase of a new artificial intelligence (AI) feature that enables users to create their own custom AI chatbots. According to a feature tracker, Meta is currently distributing this functionality to a select group of beta testers, with plans to expand access to additional users in the near future. This feature, which is already operational on Instagram and Messenger, allows users to define the purpose, personality, and even appearance of their chatbots. Once developed, users can engage in one-on-one conversations with their newly created AI companions.
WhatsApp May Allow Users to Create and Interact with AI Bots
Feature tracker WABetaInfo has reported that Meta is introducing the AI Studio-powered chatbot creation capabilities to WhatsApp. The update was identified in the beta version 2.25.18.4 for Android, available through the Play Store, where the “Create an AI” feature has been rolled out to select beta participants.
Images shared by the feature tracker indicate that the process for creating a custom AI chatbot mirrors that of Instagram and Messenger. This functionality is located within a new AI Studio tab, which also features a collection of pre-existing chatbots for user interaction.
Custom AI chatbot on WhatsApp
Photo Credit: WABetaInfo
To initialize the creation of a custom AI chatbot, users will need to draft a prompt that outlines its intended role and purpose, with a character limit of 1,000. Following this, users can select personality traits for the AI bot, with suggestions provided based on the initial description. Users also have the flexibility to input their own personality characteristics. Additionally, users must specify the role the chatbot will fulfill, such as helper, mentor, or teacher.
Next, users will select an avatar for the chatbot. WhatsApp will offer suggested avatars based on the provided information, but users can also modify these images or create entirely new avatars using text prompts. Upon completing these steps, the AI Studio will generate a custom AI chatbot ready for interaction.
It remains uncertain whether WhatsApp users will be able to share their AI chatbots with the broader community. However, since sharing is permitted on Instagram and Messenger, it is plausible that this option will also be available on WhatsApp. The feature tracker noted that more beta testers will gain access in the coming weeks, though a timeline for a full rollout to all users has yet to be disclosed.
