Meta to Launch Paid Subscription for AI Chatbot Meta AI
The test for the subscription service is expected to begin in the second quarter of this year. However, the source noted that Meta does not anticipate significant revenue from the service until at least next year.
Meta AI, launched in September 2023, is a virtual assistant that utilises large language models to perform reasoning tasks. Meta declined to comment on the development.
The initiative aligns with CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s strategy to strengthen Meta’s position against competitors such as Microsoft-backed OpenAI and Google in the AI sector. In January, Zuckerberg announced plans to invest up to USD 65 billion this year to expand the company’s AI infrastructure.
Meta is also forming a new division within its Reality Labs unit to develop AI-powered humanoid robots designed to assist with physical tasks.
Additionally, the company plans to launch a standalone Meta AI app alongside Facebook and Instagram in the second quarter, according to a CNBC report.
Investment in AI Infrastructure
Major technology firms have been heavily investing in AI infrastructure following the success of ChatGPT. In January, Microsoft announced plans to invest approximately USD 80 billion in fiscal 2025 to develop data centres. Amazon has also stated that its 2025 spending will exceed the estimated USD 75 billion allocated for 2024.
Future Plans
Meta plans to introduce a paid subscription for its AI chatbot, Meta AI, in Q2 2024. The company does not expect significant revenue from the service until 2025. Meta is investing up to USD 65 billion this year to expand AI infrastructure.
Source: REUTERS
