Photo by Thomas Trutschel/Photothek via Getty Images

AI chatbots have permeated virtually every app across every industry. However, social media has been one of the slowest areas for in-app chatbot integration. 

The only attempt so far has been Snapchat's AI-powered chatbot, which was an entire flop. Now, TikTok decided it wanted to give generative AI a try too. 

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TikTok's chatbot, named Tako, has been undergoing user testing in the Phillipines. 

Watchful.ai, the app intelligence firm which initially discovered the testing, posted images of TikTok's AI chatbot which show Tako will live on the top of the right hand bar when scrolling through videos on TikTok. 

Watchful.ai

Another image shows an example of a user using the chatbot to learn more about a video that came up on their FYP regarding King Charles III's coronation. 

Watchful.ai

TikTok confirmed the testing via Twitter saying, "We're in the early stages of exploring chatbot tools with a limited test of Tako with select users in the Philippines. Tako is an AI-powered tool to help with search and discovery on TikTok."

2/ Tako is powered by a third-party chat assistant and is designed to help make it easier to discover entertaining and inspiring content on TikTok. No current plans for this beyond these early tests, but we're excited to hear your feedback!

- TikTokComms (@TikTokComms) May 25, 2023

From that statement, it is clear that one of TikTok's major purposes for the chatbot is to drive more views and engagement to its own content. 

Also: The best AI chatbots: ChatGPT and other noteworthy alternatives

In the Tweet, TikTok also added that there are currently no plans for the chatbot besides testing, so it doesn't seem like we will be seeing that chatbot in the app anytime soon.

"We're always exploring new technologies that add value to our community," said TikTok to in a statement. "With select users, we're testing new ways to power search and discovery on TikTok, and we look forward to learning from our community as we continue to create a safe place that entertains, inspires creativity, and drives culture."

Also: TikTok bans explained: Everything you need to know

The caution TikTok has surrounding the launch of the app likely relates to how poorly Snapchat's AI integration was received by the public. 

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