If you use Facebook, WhatsApp, or Instagram, you’ve probably noticed a new AI character answering search queries and providing information in your feeds with varying degrees of accuracy. This is Meta AI, introduced by Meta Platforms’ CEO Mark Zuckerberg as “the most intelligent AI assistant that you can freely use.”
Meta AI offers various functionalities, such as recommending local restaurants, providing more information on Facebook posts, searching for airline flights, and generating images. You can even invite it into group chats to suggest cocktail bars by typing @MetaAI.
Integrated into the chat boxes and search bars across Meta’s platforms, the assistant appears at the top of your chat list on Messenger. Users can ask it questions or request it to generate pictures or animations.
However, not everyone is excited about Meta AI. Here are some tips if you want to avoid or limit its interactions:
Can I Turn It Off?
Many Facebook users have expressed frustration over the pervasive presence of Meta AI. Unfortunately, there is no single button to turn off Meta AI on Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, or WhatsApp. Nonetheless, there are some workarounds to limit its presence.
Mute Meta AI
On the Facebook mobile app, you can mute Meta AI by following these steps:
- Tap the “search” button.
- When prompted to “Ask Meta AI anything,” tap the blue triangle on the right.
- Tap the blue circle with an “i” inside it.
- Select the “mute” button and choose to silence the chatbot for 15 minutes, longer, or “Until I change it.”
You can also perform similar steps on Instagram.
Limitations of Muting
Muting does not completely remove Meta AI. Its logo might still appear where the search magnifying glass used to be, and tapping on it will take you to the Meta AI field. This has become the new way to search on Meta, similar to Google’s AI summaries.
When asked about searching without Meta AI results, the chatbot explained that Meta AI is designed to assist with questions and cannot be disabled from this experience. You can, however, search normally by tapping the search button after typing your query.
Meta AI in Posts
Meta AI also appears under posts on your Facebook news feed, offering more information about the content discussed. Unfortunately, this feature cannot be disabled, so you will have to ignore it.
Use Old School Facebook
One way to avoid Meta AI is by using Facebook’s stripped-down mobile site, mbasic.facebook.com. This version is aimed at users in developing countries with older phones and slower internet connections. It offers a basic, retro experience without AI.
Availability of Meta AI
Currently, Meta AI is available only in the United States and 13 other countries, including Australia, Canada, Ghana, Jamaica, Malawi, New Zealand, Nigeria, Pakistan, Singapore, South Africa, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. If you are outside these regions, you won’t encounter Meta AI yet.
Conclusion
While Meta AI aims to enhance user experience by providing real-time information and recommendations, not all users appreciate its presence. By following the tips above, you can limit your interactions with Meta AI and continue using Meta platforms in a way that suits your preferences.
