Snapchat has announced that it will now offer its GPT-powered AI chatbot, My AI, to all of its users for free. The announcement was made at the company’s annual developer conference, and the move is aimed at setting Snapchat apart from its competitors, such as TikTok and Instagram.
Previously, My AI was only accessible to subscribers of Snapchat’s paid service, Snapchat+. Now, all users will be able to engage with My AI by asking factual questions, requesting creative content, and engaging in back-and-forth conversations, much like with ChatGPT. Users can also add My AI to group chats and send photos to receive AI-generated images in return.
Snap CEO Evan Spiegel has emphasized the importance of My AI as a creative tool for the company’s future. The chatbot has already been well-received, with over 2 million daily chats. However, the chatbot faced criticism in the past for being inappropriate for younger users. In response, the company promises to provide age-appropriate advice going forward.
In addition to offering My AI to all users, Snapchat is introducing new tools to help creators expand their audience on the platform. Eligible creators with at least 50,000 followers on the app, 25 million views, and 10 public posts per month will be able to run a public page while keeping their private posts hidden from non-friends and family. Snapchat aims to help these creators grow their business and audience without relying on off-platform opportunities for revenue.
Snapchat’s decision to offer My AI to all users for free follows the company’s focus on private communication. However, the new tools for creators aim to strike a balance between privacy and public exposure. Snapchat hopes that My AI and the new tools for creators will help differentiate the platform from competitors and continue to be critical aspects of its future.
