Meta to introduce AI-generated images on Facebook, Instagram feeds
What's the story
Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, is set to introduce a new feature that will incorporate artificial intelligence (AI)-generated images into users' feeds.
This announcement was made at the Meta Connect 2024 event.
The innovative feature will generate content based on individual user interests or prevailing trends, and may even include images featuring the user's face.
AI integration
'Imagined for You' images: A new user experience
The AI-generated images will be labeled as "Imagined for You" in users' feeds.
Upon encountering such an image, users will have the option to share it or generate a new one in real time.
The images could range from fantastical scenes like an enchanted realm filled with magic, to personalized scenarios where users are depicted as video game characters or astronauts exploring space.
User control
Privacy concerns and user permissions
It remains unclear whether users will need to grant new permissions for this feature or if they can opt out of it.
Similar to Snapchat's AI selfie feature, which requires user consent to use their face in ads, Facebook and Instagram are expected to only display the AI-generated content to the individual user, while keeping sharing optional.
CEO's perspective
Zuckerberg sees AI images as next 'logical jump'
In a conversation with The Verge, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg described the integration of AI images into feeds as the next "logical jump" for Facebook and Instagram.
He explained that while these platforms initially focused on content from friends or followed accounts, they are now adding a layer of AI-generated content based on user interests.
The extent of this feature's influence will depend on its execution and effectiveness.
Translation feature
Meta tests AI-generated translation for Reels
Meta is also experimenting with AI-generated translation features for Reels, which include "automatic dubbing and lip syncing."
This feature aims to replicate the speaker's voice in a different language, and synchronize their lip movements accordingly.
Initially, it will be available for some creators' videos in English and Spanish in the US and Latin America.