Meta has unveiled significant updates to its AI assistant, Meta AI, during its Connect 2024 developer conference, emphasising enhancements aimed at improving user interaction and utility across its platforms. These advancements include new voice capabilities featuring celebrity likenesses, enhanced image analysis and editing, and expanded business functionalities.
📣 You can now have a conversation with Meta AI using voice. It’s super fast, connected to the web, natural and conversational and even comes with celebrity voice options from Awkwafina, Kristen Bell, John Cena, and more. What voice speaks to you? (pun intended 😆) pic.twitter.com/qpfA0zybmu
One of the most talked-about updates is the introduction of conversational voices for Meta AI. Users can now communicate with the assistant through voice on platforms like Messenger, Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram DM. Notably, the AI can respond aloud, bringing a more dynamic interaction to the user experience.
“We’re committed to building responsibly with safety in mind, continuously testing and evolving our AI products to improve your experiences,” a Meta spokesperson stated during the event. The celebrity voices available for users include renowned figures such as Awkwafina, Dame Judi Dench, John Cena, Keegan-Michael Key, and Kristen Bell. While Meta has invested significantly in acquiring these voice talents, the feature is currently available only to users in the US.
Image Analysis and Editing Capabilities
In addition to voice features, Meta AI has been enhanced with the ability to analyse and answer questions about photos shared by users. This functionality allows users to inquire about the contents of an image. For instance, users can upload a picture of a flower and ask for its identification or share a photo of a dish and receive cooking instructions.
Moreover, the AI can assist with photo editing requests. Users can specify changes, such as altering backgrounds or clothing. “From changing your outfit to replacing the background with a rainbow, our AI technology is now smarter, more fun and more useful,” the company noted, highlighting its commitment to enhancing user creativity.
Translation Features for Creators
Meta is also testing a new translation tool that aims to broaden content accessibility. This tool will automatically translate audio in Instagram Reels, allowing for automatic dubbing and lip-syncing in different languages. The feature aims to help creators reach wider audiences, starting with small tests involving videos from Latin America and the US in both English and Spanish.
Beyond individual user enhancements, Meta is expanding its AI offerings for businesses. The new business AIs enable quick setup for customer interactions via click-to-message ads on WhatsApp and Messenger. These AI systems can assist with customer inquiries, support, and commerce facilitation.
Recent statistics indicate that over one million advertisers are utilising Meta’s generative AI tools, resulting in increased ad effectiveness. “On average, ad campaigns using Meta’s generative AI features resulted in an 11% higher click-through rate and a 7.6% higher conversion rate compared to campaigns that didn’t use the features,” Meta reported, showcasing the growing impact of AI in advertising.
Conclusion
Overall, the latest updates to Meta AI position the assistant as a more versatile tool for both personal and business use. With exciting new voice features, enhanced photo capabilities, and tools designed for creators and advertisers, Meta is striving to redefine user engagement and streamline communication. As the platform continues to evolve, users can expect even more innovative features in the near future.
