Meta has recently secured a patent for an artificial intelligence (AI) system designed to replicate a user's social media presence after their death. This patent, granted in late December 2023 and originally filed by Meta's CTO Andrew Bosworth, describes a hypothetical large language model (LLM) that would simulate a person's social media activity during periods of inactivity, including posthumously.
The intent behind this technology is to assist individuals with significant online followings, such as influencers, who may wish to maintain engagement with their audience even when they are unable to post. The proposed AI could potentially interact with followers by liking posts, commenting, and simulating video or audio calls. However, the patent also acknowledges the profound implications this technology could have if employed after a user has passed away.
Despite the patent being granted, a Meta spokesperson has indicated that there are no current plans to develop or implement this AI system. The concept has drawn parallels to a similar chatbot model patented by Microsoft in 2021, which was later abandoned due to concerns about its ethical implications.
The emergence of AI-driven "deadbots," which emulate deceased individuals, has sparked significant debate among legal experts, creatives, and grief counselors regarding the ethical and social ramifications of such technology. Concerns have also been raised about the potential misuse of digital likenesses, prompting some celebrities, like Matthew McConaughey, to take proactive measures, such as trademarking their appearances and voices for protection after their deaths.
Experts in estate planning are advising the public to establish clear guidelines concerning the use of AI in the event of death, highlighting the growing importance of addressing these emerging ethical challenges in the digital landscape.