Meta AI's GenAI 'Imagine' Features Now Available on Facebook, Instagram, and Messenger

Meta AI's Imagine features, which employ generative AI to transform text prompts into captivating images, are set to expand across Facebook and Instagram, the company announced at the Meta Connect 2024 event on Wednesday. With this update, users can generate AI-driven images directly within their feeds, Stories, and even as Facebook profile pictures.

These new capabilities are designed to enhance user engagement, allowing individuals and creators to attract more attention to their posts and shares with unique, eye-catching images that complement their text. Once shared, friends and followers can view, react to, or even recreate these imaginative visuals, according to Meta.

Many Facebook users already choose profile pictures featuring characters, animals, or other visuals to maintain privacy. The update simplifies this process, enabling users to generate their profile images hassle-free.

Additionally, the AI will suggest captions for Stories on both Facebook and Instagram, enriching the storytelling experience. The image generation features will also extend to Messenger, allowing users to create personalized chat themes. By tapping “Themes” in conversations, users can now access a broader array of image options, going beyond the previous options of changing backgrounds and text bubble colors.

Meta is also testing new AI-generated content within Facebook and Instagram feeds. These posts will showcase AI images tailored to users' interests and trending topics, encouraging interaction and exploration of Meta AI. Users can engage with suggested prompts to reimagine their photos or swipe to create content in real-time using Meta Imagine AI.

During the event, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg highlighted that Meta AI stands out not only for its cutting-edge models but also for offering free, unlimited access seamlessly integrated across various products and applications. “Meta AI is on course to become the most utilized AI assistant globally by the end of this year. In fact, it might already be there… We’re close to reaching 500 million monthly active users, even before launching in several major markets,” Zuckerberg noted.