Snapchat has introduced its own AI chatbot to mixed reviews, with some criticising its prominence on the social media app.
Snapchat AI is powered by OpenAI’s GPT – the same tech that is being integrated into Microsoft’s Bing search engine.
The feature, dubbed My AI, is pinned to the top of users’ chat feeds and only paid subscribers can remove it.
This has led to criticism online, with confusion emerging over how the app uses location data.
Snap called My AI “an experimental, friendly, chatbot” which can perform tasks such as answering questions, offering advice, or planning trips.
Say hi to My AI, our new chatbot located at the top of your chat. Write a song for your bestie who loves cheese, find the best IYKYK restaurant, or Snap it a photo of your garden to find the perfect recipe. Now free for all Snapchatters. #SnapPartnerSummit pic.twitter.com/U2KdozuWQz
— Snapchat (@Snapchat) April 19, 2023
But it conceded the tool may not always be accurate, and its responses “may include biased, incorrect, harmful, or misleading content”.
My AI has been rolled out to millions of users globally, having first been introduced to paid subscribers.
By paying for Snapchat+ – which costs £3.99 per month in the UK – users gain access to customisation features including pinning and unpinning features, including My AI.
A Snap spokesperson told the BBC the “vast majority” of people with early access to My AI had been enjoying it, with millions of messages sent per day.
“We’ve appreciated all the feedback from our passionate community as we continue to improve the experience.”
