You can now build custom chatbots on WhatsApp with AI character creation

Meta plans to introduce AI character creation capabilities directly within WhatsApp, allowing users to build custom chatbots through the messaging platform.

Key development: Meta is developing features that will enable WhatsApp users to create personalized AI characters directly within the Android app, based on findings in beta version 2.25.1.26.

• The feature will allow users to build custom AI chatbots by describing their desired personality traits, expertise, and unique qualities
• The implementation appears similar to the existing Meta AI Studio tool currently available on Instagram’s website
• WhatsApp plans to provide trait suggestions to help users during the character creation process
• A refresh button will let users generate new trait recommendations if they’re unsatisfied with initial suggestions

Current state of AI on WhatsApp: While AI characters are already available to eligible WhatsApp users, the new feature aims to make the creation process more accessible.

• Users can currently interact with both first-party and third-party chatbots
• The planned update will democratize chatbot creation by bringing the building tools directly into the app interface

Interface changes: Meta is considering significant modifications to WhatsApp’s Android app structure to accommodate the new AI features.

• The Communities tab may be replaced with a dedicated AI chats section
• Community features will remain accessible through the main Chats tab
• These changes are still in development, with no confirmed release date

Market context: WhatsApp maintains its position as the world’s leading messaging platform, serving billions of users globally.

• The platform connects users with friends, family, and businesses
• This AI integration represents Meta’s effort to modernize the messaging experience
• The move aligns with the broader industry trend of incorporating AI capabilities into communication platforms

Future implications: The introduction of user-created AI characters could fundamentally alter how people interact with WhatsApp, though the feature’s success will likely depend on user adoption and the quality of the AI interactions it enables.