Meta AI

Meta’s AI app downloads surged 56% after launching Vibes, an AI-generated video feed. While showing promising initial growth, it lags behind OpenAI’s Sora in downloads. Creators find Sora easier to use for realistic videos. Meta is compensating creators for Vibes content and strategically targeting markets like India. Meta leverages third-party AI and internal development. Meta’s AI strategy, including the Vibes feed and digital AI characters are being closely watch by investors, along with a shift in priority demonstrated by reassigning their Metaverse strategy leader to AI product development.

Meta is reportedly cutting around 600 AI positions despite recent aggressive hiring, raising questions about its AI strategy. The restructuring impacts FAIR, product-related AI, and AI infrastructure units within Superintelligence Labs, aiming to streamline operations and accelerate development after perceived bureaucratic inefficiencies and unmet market expectations for Llama models. While new hires in TBD Labs remain largely untouched, the move signals a shift towards a more focused, application-driven AI strategy. This realignment emphasizes nimbleness and prioritizes new talent, potentially influencing the broader tech industry’s approach to AI investments.

Meta is integrating its generative AI assistant, Meta AI, across Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp to enhance ad targeting and content recommendations starting December 16th. By analyzing user interactions with Meta AI, the system will personalize experiences, potentially showing related Reels or ads based on conversations. Voice interactions via Ray-Ban Meta glasses will also contribute. While users can’t opt out, those not using Meta AI won’t be affected. The rollout begins in the UK and EU, reflecting Meta’s push to monetize AI while navigating data privacy concerns.