TikTok Testing AI Chatbot

If the new thing is that every tech company is racing to have its own AI, add TikTok to the list. The social media platform is reportedly testing Tako, an AI that can recommend videos based on what people ask it, according to information shared with The Verge.

A spokesperson for TikTok called the chatbot a “limited experiment” and provided no information on if or when it will be made more widely available. In a tweet, the company said it is currently only available in the Philippines.

Instagram Allowing Ads in Search Results

Instagram is now allowing ads in Instagram search results, just two months after it announced it would be testing the capability.

What this means for users is that they’ll be faced with more ads—likely a frustrating prospect for those who endure them in many other areas of the app—but for advertisers, it’s another opportunity to reach new customers.

The goal is for users searching for businesses to be served relevant results in addition to ads. For example, if a user were to type in “designer jewelry,” they would get organic results as well as related ads.

“This new ads placement will be available on all current Marketing API versions and does not require an upgrade,” Instagram said in its recent blog post announcement. “With this new addition, you will be able to update your app to enable your clients to create and preview ads in Instagram search results via API.”

Get more details on Instagram parent Meta’s Marketing API here.

Snapchat Offering Enhanced Try-on Tool

Snapchat is forging on with augmented reality (AR), announcing an enhanced try-on tool in partnership with nail polish brand OPI.

“Snapchat AR’s new nail polish try-on technology will apply polish and other 2D effects directly to a Snapchatter’s fingernail,” a statement from Snapchat said. “With Nails Segmentation, brands can precisely add textures and designs, or track 2D color to a user’s individual nail, creating a seamless try-on experience for the consumer.”

The latest tool is reported to be more responsive and realistic than previous versions, potentially opening doors for other retailers to have customers virtually try on their goods (like jewelry).

(Photo: Getty Images Plus/pressureUA)

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