WhatsApp is reportedly looking to introduce an AI-dedicated section for users in the popular messaging app.
According to leaker website WABetaInfo, WhatsApp is developing a new tab called “AI”, which will added at the bottom navigation bar for users to access AI tools offered by Meta.
Based on a screenshot, it may be possible for WhatsApp users to find companionship by chatting with various AI characters, including those with anime-themed personas which can be found under the category Popular AI Characters.
There is also a category called Advice and Connection for users to get tips on relationships and even psychic advice from AI-powered chatbots. Users can also access information or interact with AI characters under the category Pop Culture.
The article said that suggestions for AI chats are based on what's trending or highly-rated by others in the app, adding that some of the AI tools may be developed by third-party creators which are designed to offer unique experiences based on users' interests.
The AI tab is expected to replace the Communities tab in the navigation bar. According to WABetaInfo, community creation tools will be placed under the Chats tab. As the feature is currently under development, it is not yet ready for beta testers.
Back in April, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced that the company has started integrating its own AI-powered chat assistant Meta AI into apps like WhatsApp and Instagram. However, Meta AI is currently not available to users in Malaysia.
Last month, competitor OpenAI announced that users can now interact with ChatGPT directly on WhatsApp for work assistance or casual chats about the weather. To start, users can add ChatGPT to their contacts with the number 1800 242 8478.