During Siggraph 2024, Mark Zuckerberg discussed the future of generative AI, and it left me feeling uneasy. The conversation with Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang gave insight into a world where AI will tailor content specifically for each individual, intensifying the endless cycle of doom scrolling we are already accustomed to.
Zuckerberg himself captured the essence of this future when he stated, “With generative AI, I think we’re going to quickly move into this zone where not only is the majority of the content on platforms like Instagram recommended to you based on your interests, but a significant portion of it will also be created using generative AI tools.”
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Zuckerberg’s vision includes creators leveraging AI tools to produce new content in real-time or curate synthesized content from various sources, ushering in a new era of personalized AI-generated content.
The concept of AI-curated content raises concerns about the authenticity and soul of human-created content being replaced by algorithmically generated material. This transition to AI-dictated content poses ethical questions and challenges the essence of genuine human expression through social media platforms.
Meta’s new AI Studio, powered by the Llama 3.1 model, was highlighted by Zuckerberg as a key enabler of this future landscape. The platform offers users the ability to explore different AI creators and characters, allowing them to create their own AI entities for audience interaction.
Despite the potential for users to engage with AI for support or role-play scenarios, there are inherent complexities and risks associated with para-social relationships and AI interaction in stressful situations. However, this trend towards AI integration has been steadily progressing.
Individuals can experiment with creating their own AI characters on the AI Studio website or through the Instagram app, while alternatives like Character.ai provide similar services.