TikTok has bitten the AI bullet and is testing its very own AI chatbot called Tako to enhance user experience. The chatbot is initially open to select users in the Philippines. TikTok is in the early stages of exploring chatbot tools.
The company tweeted that Tako is an AI-powered tool to help with search and discovery on TikTok. “Tako is powered by a third-party chat assistant and is designed to help make it easier to discover entertaining and aspiring content on TikTok. No current plans for this beyond these early tests, but we’re excited to hear your feedback.”
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
TikTok says being at the forefront of innovation is core to building TikTok’s experience. “We are always exploring new technologies that add value to our community. 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.”
Users can ask TikTok’s chatbot Tako various questions using natural language queries or discover new content by asking for recommendations. The platform said if users were looking for ideas of something to watch, they could ask Tako to suggest some videos on a particular topic, such as funny pet videos. As such, the chatbot would give a list of results, including the video’s name, author and subject, as well as links to suggested videos.
The platform has pop-up messages informing users that Tako is “experimental” and its feedback may not be true or accurate. It also said that the chatbot should not be relied on for medical, legal or financial advice.
TikTok is reportedly using an unknown third-party AI provider that the platform has customized for its needs. It does not include the use of any in-house AI technologies from TikTok or parent company ByteDance.
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