Meta Develops AI-Powered Search Engine

Meta is reportedly developing its own AI-powered search engine, aiming to reduce its reliance on major players like Google and Microsoft. According to a report from The Information, this new search engine is designed to generate AI-based summaries of current events, which will be integrated into the Meta AI chatbot.

The Meta AI chatbot is currently embedded in platforms such as Facebook and Instagram. Presently, it utilizes Google and Microsoft Bing to provide answers regarding recent news and events. However, with indications of a shift on the horizon, Meta's web crawlers have been seen collecting data from across the internet for several months.

A source from The Information informed that a dedicated team at Meta has been working for approximately eight months to establish a comprehensive database for their chatbot. In addition to search capabilities, the company has also been developing location data services to compete with Google Maps.

Further establishing its intent, last week Meta announced a multi-year partnership with Reuters, enabling its chatbot to utilize news articles from the outlet in its responses. This move indicates Meta's desire to create a solid foundation of reliable information for its users.

In the wider landscape of AI search engines, OpenAI is also reportedly developing one known as SearchGPT. At the same time, another AI search engine, Perplexity, faces challenges including lawsuits from News Corp and threats from publishers such as The New York Times.

Meta, AI, Search