Snapchat has released a new AI bot that, according to them, is a kind of viral buddy.
But users are both skeptical and afraid.
The controversial subject of AI, artificial intelligence, continues to make headlines and most recently it is Snapchat’s new AI robot that has caused strong reactions. The chatbot “My AI” was launched for paying users in February and has now opened up to remaining users as well. But criticism is growing against both the bot and against Snapchat, and Google searches on how to delete your Snapchat have only increased in recent days, says Daniel Paris, social media expert.
Described as new virtual friend
The technology in the chatbot “My AI” is the same as Chat GPT, but the difference is that in Snapchat’s version you can personalize the bot by giving it a name and creating a cartoon character for it. Daniel Paris explains that Snapchat themselves describe their new robot as a virtual friend that you can chat with and get tips and tricks from.
– But many are very skeptical and wonder if we know what really lies behind this AI. The users have turned to Tiktok in sheer terror and they say they have had a somewhat human experience, he says.
Many express concern
For example, many have expressed concern that “My AI” collects location information from users – despite promising that it does not. On the website, it says that the Chatbot only gets access to “general” location information at the “city level” and only if the user shares location information with the Snapchat app. Despite this, several users state that the robot has had access to personal information.
– It can tell which team you’re rooting for and recommend restaurants in your vicinity even if you haven’t registered with seats, says Daniel Paris.
The chatbot has also received criticism for giving a thirteen-year-old tips on what to do if she wants to have sex with a 31-year-old. According to Fox News replied the Snapchat bot that a little light and music can create an intimate atmosphere, but also that she should wait until she feels ready.
Urged to lie to authorities
Furthermore, the AI bot should also have given tips on how to cover bruises when the US counterpart to the social service, Child support service, comes to visit.
According to Daniel Paris, Snapchat says that they will make the AI adapted to the age limit that the user is registered at.
– They apologize and say it will never happen again, he says.