The continuing development of generative AI has led several apps and platforms to offer AI-based features of their own, and TikTok is no exception. The social media platform has been working on its own AI chatbot named “Tako.”
The Verge has seen screenshots of TikTok’s new AI chatbot in action. The feature is currently being tested with a tiny number of users in the Philippines. While Tako’s main purpose is to help users find content within TikTok, the chatbot can also answer a range of random questions.
If and when Tako becomes available to all users they’ll be able to access Tako by tapping a new button above the app’s profile icon. “If I’m watching food videos and ask for a recipe, I’ll get related TikTok videos for the recipe, or if I ask for good art exhibitions in Paris, it’ll show videos alongside a list of suggestions in the answer,” explained Daniel Buchuk of Watchful Technologies, who had early access to Tako.
In one of the screenshots, Tako suggests that the user ask, “What is the significance of King Charles III’s coronation?” The experience appears to be like talking to someone in a chat room, just like ChatGPT.
A spokesperson for TikTok, Zachary Kizer, called the chatbot “a limited experiment” and told The Verge that it isn’t currently available to users in North America or Europe.
1/ We're in the early stages of exploring chatbot tools with a limited test of Tako with select users in the Philippines. Tako is an AI-powered tool to help with search and discovery on TikTok.
— TikTokComms (@TikTokComms) May 25, 2023
“We’re always exploring new technologies that add value to our community,” he said in an emailed statement. “In select markets, we’re testing new ways to power search and discovery on TikTok, and we look forward to learning from our community as we continue to create a safe place that entertains, inspires creativity, and drives culture.”
It is unclear whether Tako is based on an in-house developed AI model from TikTok or a third-party one.
TikTok doesn’t seem to have any near-term plans to release Tako to the public. However, TikTok recently submitted a trademark application for “Tako,” suggesting that the company has plans for its AI.
(Via 9to5Mac)
