Meta Enables Businesses to Build Chatbots Embedded with Ads

At the Meta Connect 2024 developer conference in Menlo Park on Wednesday, Meta announced the expansion of its AI-driven business chatbots for brands on WhatsApp and Messenger through click-to-message ads.

Businesses can now create ad-embedded chatbots that engage with customers, provide support, and streamline order processes, according to Meta. “From answering common inquiries to discussing products and completing purchases, these business AIs enable companies to connect with more customers and boost sales,” the company stated in a blog post.

Meta is increasingly integrating AI into its advertising tools. In May, the company allowed advertisers to generate complete ad images and alternate headlines using AI. In June, Meta initiated testing of AI-powered customer support for WhatsApp users, enabling automatic responses to frequently asked questions.

Meta reports that over one million advertisers are utilizing its AI advertising tools, resulting in the creation of 15 million ads last month. According to Meta, AI ads enhance click-through rates. However, there are indications that consumers may prefer human interaction. A recent survey by customer experience platform Callvu revealed that most individuals would rather wait at least a minute for a live customer agent than engage instantly with an AI chatbot.