AI in Social Media: Transforming Algorithms, Content Creation, and User Experience
AI in Social Media: Transforming Algorithms and Content Creation
When social media established its foothold as a means of communication, it transformed the way we interact and obtain information online. Now, more than two decades later, artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming social media. While the use of AI in content generation has often got the spotlight, its wider applications and implications on social media creators and users are often hidden behind the charm of unique images and easy-to-produce text facilitated by the technology.
AI in Social Media Algorithms
One of the main pillars of social media platforms is the algorithm that dictates their operation. Social media algorithms lend unique features to every platform and are also the link between content production and consumption. They analyse user behaviour and preferences to deliver personalised content. Most of these are powered by AI.
- Social media algorithms use AI to provide a plethora of features.
- They suggest friends or accounts you would like to connect with.
- They determine the kind of content that appears on a user's feed.
AI is used to understand user interests, beliefs, and preferences, serving the content most suited to users' profiles.
AI in Social Media Analytics
Algorithms depend on data analysis. AI is facilitating comprehensive data collection on social media platforms. From sentiment to trend analysis, AI-powered analytics flourish on user data.
- Time spent browsing
- Likes, shares, comments
- New connections
AI-based personalisation algorithms predict user interests based on past behaviour, leading to ethical dilemmas such as privacy concerns.
AI in Social Media Content Creation
The most common use of AI in social media is for content creation. Generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Midjourney are helping content creators innovate.
- These tools serve as starting points to prevent creative blocks.
- They can generate images directly based on user input.
Meta AI – A Boon or Bane?
A recent development in the use of AI in social media is the introduction of Meta AI – an AI assistant that users can interact with on WhatsApp, Instagram, Messenger, and Facebook. Its popularity has soared in India.
Applications of Meta AI
Meta AI facilitates user convenience by allowing tasks without leaving the app.
Downside of Meta AI
Despite its advantages, Meta AI brings concerns regarding user data, privacy issues, and over-dependence on AI tools.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.