Meta has introduced a new feature that allows its AI assistant, Muse, to make phone calls with companies and institutions in the US on behalf of users. This development reflects the growing trend of AI tools moving beyond providing information and answering queries to performing daily tasks directly. The feature is available to all paid subscribers of Muse in the US, following a testing period that began in September.
The new feature enables users to delegate tasks such as contacting insurance companies, communication providers, internet and TV service providers, and government departments to the AI assistant. This includes making reservations at restaurants that do not offer online booking. According to Alex Wang, head of AI at Meta and leader of Meta Superintelligence Labs, this feature aims to save users time and effort, particularly in situations where they would have to wait for extended periods to speak with customer service representatives.
The expansion of Muse's capabilities is part of Meta's efforts to increase its presence in daily usage, with over 10 million users reported in October. The feature to make phone calls is currently limited to paid subscribers, with plans starting at $20 per month for 500 million digital processing units (Tokens) per week. The highest subscription plan costs $100 per month for three billion Tokens per week.
In addition to the phone call feature, Meta is also planning to extend the availability of creating a custom email address for Muse to free users. This move is part of the company's strategy to enhance the functionality of its AI assistant. The development of AI-powered digital agents capable of performing tasks on behalf of users is a growing trend, with companies like Instinct and Google also working on similar services.
Despite the advancements in AI technology, the widespread adoption of these services faces challenges, including the willingness of companies to interact with AI-generated calls. Some customer service representatives reportedly end calls immediately upon realizing they are speaking with an AI system rather than a human. However, the rapid development of voice generation technology raises additional concerns about distinguishing between human and AI-generated calls.
The introduction of Meta's new feature highlights the evolving role of AI in daily life, from simple information provision to more complex task execution. As AI technology continues to advance, it is likely to have a significant impact on how people interact with businesses and institutions. The success of this feature will depend on the adoption rate among users and the willingness of companies to engage with AI systems.
The future of AI-powered digital agents looks promising, with potential applications across various industries. However, addressing the challenges associated with AI-generated calls and ensuring seamless interactions between humans and AI systems will be crucial for the widespread adoption of these technologies. As the landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Meta and other companies navigate these complexities.
Key points
- Meta's AI assistant, Muse, can now make phone calls on behalf of users in the US, expanding its capabilities beyond information provision.
