Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook, is set to unveil new audio features for its AI chatbot that will allow users to interact with digital assistants using the voices of famous actors. According to a source familiar with Meta’s plans, the social media giant has secured deals with high-profile celebrities such as Judi Dench, John Cena, Kristen Bell, Awkwafina, and Keegan-Michael Key. This new feature will be announced at Meta’s annual Connect conference, starting this Wednesday.
The AI chatbot, which functions similarly to OpenAI’s ChatGPT, will offer users the option to select a voice from these celebrities, along with other generic voice choices. This move is part of Meta’s broader efforts to enhance its artificial intelligence capabilities across its suite of apps, including Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. The celebrity voices will be rolled out in the U.S. and other English-speaking markets this week.
In addition to the AI chatbot update, Meta is expected to unveil the first version of its augmented reality (AR) glasses at the Connect event. The AR glasses will likely include enhanced capabilities, such as an integration with Meta’s AI features. Meta had previously introduced its Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, which were the first to include an audio version of the AI chatbot, marking a significant step in its hardware developments.
Meta’s CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, recently shared a promotional video featuring John Cena on Instagram. The video showcased the two men engaging in stunts while wearing the Ray-Ban Meta glasses, highlighting the integration of AI and AR in Meta’s hardware products.
This latest push is part of Meta’s race to dominate the growing field of generative artificial intelligence, where it competes with other tech giants like OpenAI and Google. Meta aims to expand its AI offerings, making them more central to the user experience across its platforms. The company has also been experimenting with using celebrities in AI projects. Last year, Meta launched text-based chatbot characters inspired by celebrities like Paris Hilton and Snoop Dogg, though these attempts failed to gain significant traction.
Meta’s latest move reflects the increasing focus on celebrity-driven AI projects, similar to OpenAI’s efforts. Earlier this year, OpenAI introduced an audio feature for its chatbot but faced backlash when Scarlett Johansson accused the company of mimicking her voice without her consent.
Meta’s ongoing efforts underscore the fierce competition in the AI space, as companies race to bring innovative products to billions of users worldwide.
