TikTok Tests AI Chatbot Called ‘Tako’

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TikTok is experimenting with an AI chatbot capable of answering questions and helping users discover content that matches their interests.

As it says ReutersThe chatbot is called “Tako” and was developed by a research company Viewing Technologies. TikTok currently offers Tako as a feature on some iPhones in the US, with users able to ask the chatbot for help finding what they’re looking for.

Watchful says Tako can engage in “one-on-one conversations with each user,” make personalized recommendations and help them navigate the platform to discover content. The Tako icon is placed as the top icon on the right side of the TikTok interface, suggesting that TikTok wants this to be a popular feature that users can easily find and rely on.

TikTok is not ready to talk about Tako yet, and when asked about the chatbot a spokesperson said: “In certain markets, we are testing new ways of search and discovery on TikTok, and we look forward to hearing from our community. “As we continue to build a safe place to entertain, inspire creativity and promote culture.”

It should come as no surprise that TikTok is looking to embrace artificial intelligence on its platform. Its launch ChatGPT it led to a merger with Bing, Google announced Bard, and people started worry that their jobs may soon disappear. TikTok meanwhile faces a ban in Montana and is trying to mitigate security concerns by giving Oracle full access to its source code.