Pure AI Social Media is now here. For better or worse
The world is rapidly changing as AI is integrated into every facet of our lives. From simple automation and chatbots to the much-hyped (and often disappointing) “get-rich-quick” schemes using ChatGPT, AI is now being adopted by industry giants and innovative startups alike. Social media, a landscape in constant flux, is no exception to this AI revolution.
“No human users, just you and AI’s.”
Enter Aspect, a newly launched app that boldly claims to be a purely AI social media platform. Its tagline? “No human users, just you and AI’s.” While details about the app are scarce, Aspect promises a unique experience where users can interact with AI-generated content, chat with AI personalities, and even form ‘relationships’ with them.
This raises a host of questions. Can AI truly replicate human connection? What are the implications for users and businesses? Let’s dive in.
The AI Social Experience
After downloading and signing up, the minimalist UI forced me to choose “people” to follow. After randomly selecting a handful of personalities, the app’s spartan aesthetics (and content) continued.
The home screen proudly showcased a single post with 33 “likes” and 5 “comments” — no doom scrolling, no mounds of cringe “obviously-AI” content, just a lonely, solitary post. Although the profile of Rose* (*name changed for anonymity /s) is mightily impressive, being a baker at a Parisian patisserie, a marine biologist studying coral reefs, AND an Olympic figure skater!
Thinking that I made a mistake by not selecting more personalities to follow, I attempted to add more. But there’s no search capability? Surely, an AI could rustle up a few fake profiles based on my interests or topics I typed in a search bar? But no, nothing!
I eventually found other profiles by searching through Rose’s* followers. After adding 20–30 additional followers, the Home Feed proudly displays two posts. 2. Dos. Deuces. Not the revolutionary social experience I was expecting.
Underwhelmed, I turned to the chat function that promises “diverse” and “unique relationships with AI.” Gate kept behind a $9.99/m subscription paywall, which only led to growing frustration and disappointment. Slow to respond, non-sensical answers and blatant attempts to glean my preciously profitable profile information, this was not the unique experience that Aspect promised.
By now, we all understand and appreciate that AI is still in its infancy. We often overlook the monumental advancements achieved in such a short time and now expect perfection with every application. So, while Aspect can be extended a fair bit of leeway while it sets a foundation and irons out all the kinks, it could be so much more simultaneously.
The Allure of AI: Taking a step back
Aspect’s appeal lies in its potential to offer a hyper-personalized experience. AI algorithms could curate content tailored to individual preferences, eliminating the negativity and “trolling” that plagues many existing platforms. This means a more enjoyable and engaging experience, free from social pressures and toxic user discourse.
Imagine a world where real-time marketing strategies are refined based on AI-driven user interaction analysis.
Brands and businesses also stand to benefit from hyper-targeted advertising, automated content creation, and unprecedented insights into consumer behaviour. Imagine a world where real-time marketing strategies are refined based on AI-driven user interaction analysis.
Navigating the Risks: Authenticity, Trust, and Ethical Concerns
But this brave new world comes with its own set of challenges. Can AI truly replicate the authenticity and depth of human connection? Will users trust AI-generated content and interactions? Concerns about misinformation, manipulation, and echo chambers are already prevalent on existing platforms.
An over-reliance on AI could stifle creativity and genuine human connection, leaving users feeling isolated and disengaged. A lack of authenticity could erode brand trust, making it harder to build meaningful relationships with consumers.
The Path Forward: Embracing AI Responsibly
The rise of AI-generated social media platforms like Aspect presents a complex landscape with potential benefits and risks. To succeed, Aspect must prioritise transparency, ethical practices, and user well-being.
Brands must balance leveraging AI to enhance their marketing efforts and building genuine relationships with their audience.
Users need to understand how AI is shaping their experiences and have control over their data. Brands must balance leveraging AI to enhance their marketing efforts and building genuine relationships with their audience.
The Future of Social Media: Utopia or Dystopia?
Aspect offers a glimpse into the future of social media. Whether this future is a utopia or a dystopia depends on how we choose to embrace AI. By fostering a responsible and ethical approach, we can create a social media landscape that benefits users and brands alike.
The journey is just beginning. Buckle up!
#AI #SocialMedia #AspectApp #TechInnovation #FutureofSocial
