Instagram is reportedly testing an AI chatbot for its Search and Direct Messaging features as social media expands the integration of the technology into the platform.

First reported by TechCrunch and Engadget, Instagram was noted to be adding Meta AI chatbot to allow users ask the AI for content suggestions and generate simple images.

The chatbot can be accessed via Instagram's Search bar or through the Direct Message inbox. AI startup Perplexity seems to have designed the chatbot as noted by its CEO Aravind Srinivas on X (formerly Twitter).

It is worth noting, however, that the chatbot feature is similar to the WhatsApp chatbot Meta has also launched recently. WhatsApp's chatbot is also able to suggest content from Meta-owned platforms and generate AI images.

Also Read: Instagram Rolls Out Blurring of Nudity in Messages to Fight Sexual Extortion, Protect Teens

Meta Expands AI-Powered Tools on Instagram

The release of Meta AI chatbot on Instagram marks the growing trend of generative AI-powered tools Meta has been introducing on its platforms.

Instagram has previously debuted image editing tools and a shopping assistant for the wide range of businesses and influencers operating on the platform.

Even its recent decision to blur sexual and explicit images to its teenage users was made possible by generative AI technology it has already introduced before on Facebook.

This is not to mention the AI-generated stickers and AI personas available on all messaging channels owned by Meta.

The rollouts follow Meta's statement in September last year to lean more into generative technology as it competes with other tech giants' AI models.

Related Article: Instagram Debuts AI-Powered Editing Tool to Change Backgrounds

Meta Platforms Plagued with AI Content

That said, Meta seems to still be lacking proper guardrails in the application of AI-powered content on its platform as evidenced by the surge of bot accounts across Facebook and Instagram.

Many of the posts regurgitate popular trends and keywords used on the platforms, resulting in weird depictions of Jesus Christ, religious imageries, children, and popular female actresses.

There are no indications that Meta still allows such content to be generated from its chatbot. Meta has previously promised to tighten its rules on labeling AI-generated content on all platforms.