Threads tests Meta AI integration with Grok-like features as chatbot gets its own account

Meta AI Integration Brings Grok-Like Functionality to Threads

Meta is testing a new Meta AI integration on Threads that closely resembles how Grok operates on X. The feature allows users with public accounts to mention @meta.ai directly in posts or replies to receive additional context, recommendations, or information about trending topics and breaking stories 1

1

. Currently in early beta test, the AI chatbot functionality is rolling out to users in Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Mexico, Argentina, and Singapore 2

2

.

The AI bot on Threads operates through a dedicated @meta.ai account that responds publicly to user queries. Users can ask questions like "why are people talking about the World Cup this month?" or "whose Met Gala looks are trending right now?" and the AI chatbot will process the mention and reply in the same language as the original post 1

1

. This approach maps almost perfectly onto how AskGrok functions on X, where tagging an AI mid-conversation has become a reflex for millions of users 3

3

.

Powered by Muse Spark Model Across Meta's Ecosystem

The Grok-like AI feature is powered by Meta's latest Muse Spark model, which represents the first major release from Meta's "superintelligence" group as the company builds a new foundation for its AI work in the post-Llama era 2

2

. The same model is rolling out across WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, and Messenger, signaling a broader push to integrate Meta AI throughout the company's app ecosystem.

On WhatsApp, Meta is testing a private version called "side chats," where users can query the bot about group conversations with responses visible only to the person asking, unlike Threads where all public responses appear in the open 2

2

. By integrating Meta AI into its platform, Threads is positioning itself as not just a destination for chatting about news and trends, but also a place where users can get real-time context without leaving the app 1

1

.

Safeguards and User Control Concerns

Giving an AI chatbot this level of visibility carries risks, as demonstrated on X when Grok generated posts praising Hitler and drew criticism for creating non-consensual sexualized images of real people 1

1

3

3

. Meta AI notably has stronger safeguards in place than Grok, though concerns remain about whether it will be prone to similar issues through user-driven manipulation 1

1

.

Meta is offering ways for users to manage their interaction with the feature. If users want to see fewer Meta AI replies in their feed, they can mute @meta.ai, use the "Not interested" option on any Meta AI post, or hide replies that appear directly on their posts 1

1

. However, within hours of the beta test launch, users discovered they could not block the @meta.ai account, triggering over a million angry posts on the platform and raising questions about user engagement and control 3

3

. Meta says it plans to learn from early feedback and will continue improving the experience before expanding it to more people 1

1

.