Meta recently integrated its Meta AI chatbot into Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp following the introduction of its AI assistants and chatbots in September. Although some users welcomed this advancement in AI technology, others have expressed a desire to disable it.
Despite Meta’s assertion that the Meta AI cannot be fully disabled, there are several potential solutions available to users seeking to limit its usage.
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What Is The Meta AI Chatbot?
The Meta AI chatbot is often described as a “free virtual assistant” capable of assisting users in planning trips, dinners, and even generating captions for Instagram posts. While the feature offers convenience, some users have noted its tendency to replace the traditional search bar on the platform, although regular search functionality remains accessible by typing in keywords as usual.
Powered by Meta Llama 3, the chatbot is available not only in the US but also in several other countries including Australia, Canada, Ghana, Jamaica, Malawi, New Zealand, Nigeria, Pakistan, Singapore, South Africa, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
How Do I Turn Meta AI Off On Instagram?
Follow the below steps for turning off Meta AI on Instagram:
- Step 1: Start by tapping on the magnifying glass icon located at the bottom of the Instagram app to initiate a search.
- Step 2: Once the search interface opens, tap on the blue arrow to send a message to the Meta AI chatbot.
- Step 3: After receiving a message from the chatbot, reply with the message “I don’t need your help. I want to search the old way.”
- Step 4: Now, tap on the name “Meta AI” located in the top left corner of the chat window.
In the options that appear, tap on “profile” and then proceed to block Meta AI. - Step 5: After blocking Meta AI, return to your search. Although you may still see the Meta AI blue circle, you should be able to search using the traditional method.
If the above steps do not resolve the issue, consider exploring alternative solutions suggested in relevant discussions or forums, such as Reddit. Additionally, for WhatsApp users, navigate to “Settings” → “Chats” → “Show Meta AI Button” to hide the Meta AI button.
What If I Want To Use the Meta AI Chatbot?
Using the chatbot is straightforward if you don’t mind its presence. Once you’ve entered a search term, sentence, or question into the search bar, the chatbot will engage automatically.
It offers various functionalities, including animating photos, and can even curate Reels based on your interests.
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