The parent company of Facebook and Instagram, Meta has announced the rollout of its generative artificial intelligence assistant, Meta AI, across the European Union starting this week. This launch follows more than a year since its initial introduction in the United States in September 2023 and subsequent expansion on all Meta platforms in April 2024.

The company acknowledged the delays in bringing its AI technology to Europe due to the complex regulatory landscape, stating, “It’s taken longer than we would have liked but we’re glad we’re finally here.”

Users in the EU will have access to text-only responses from Meta AI, which is designed to facilitate deeper engagement by allowing users to explore topics of interest or seek assistance with various queries, including travel planning.

It is important to note that Meta’s AI bot was not trained using data from EU users, a decision influenced by strict data regulations within the region.

Until now, Meta had been cautious about introducing its AI in the EU due to uncertainties regarding how overlapping regulations on data protection and digital markets might be interpreted by authorities.

Read more

EU probes Facebook, Instagram over election disinformation worries

WhatsApp to offer customizable Meta AI voices in upcoming update

Meta to rollout AI feature on WhatsApp

As Meta prepares to launch its AI across 41 European countries and in six languages, the company emphasizes that AI remains a top priority.

With plans to invest $60-65 billion this year in data centers, servers, and network infrastructure, Meta aims to drive innovation and maintain its competitive edge in technology.

Meta reports approximately 700 million monthly active users for its AI assistant, though CEO Mark Zuckerberg has indicated that reaching one billion users is essential for securing a lasting advantage in the market.