Chatting with a Messenger bot will probably end with it trying to sell you something. This was always kind of expected, right? But now, Messenger Bots will have a 24-hour window when they are allowed to push promotional content to your inbox.
Chat bots have literally been taking over Messenger since they first appeared. And now that they accept payments, there is no reason why this would change over the coming months. Not before something better comes around anyway. And now bots can go as far as sending you personalised promotional messages.
The ban on promotional content was lifted by Facebook as part of a wider change of rules for Messenger. Starting immediately, brands who have created “standard messaging” can send you promotional content or ads. But they only have a 24-hour window after your last “chat” to do so, and you – the user- will have had to initiate the conversation first.
Not all bots are relate to the new rule. “Subscription messaging” bots – meaning bots that send you messages on an going basis after your approval, like news bots for example – and other “service”bots – the ones sending you receipts or flight notifications for example – are exempt from the 24-hour window limit.
What do you think of this update? Another step towards the commercialisation of chat bots?
Featured Image: TechCrunch
You might also like
More from Facebook
Meta Refreshes Facebook Groups With New Features
Facebook Groups now have an updated invitation system to reduce admin workloads and limit sharing of misinformation.
Meta Offers Digital Security Course For Journalists And Human Rights Defenders
The Meta Journalism Project and the ICFJ have put together a self-paced 90-minute course and webinars to provide online safety …
Facebook Tests New Desktop Layout Redesign
Reports say that some users are starting to see a new Facebook desktop layout, with all options listed on a …
Meta May Soon Alert You When Your Posts Are Removed By AI
According to reports, Meta is rolling out a system that notifies users when their posts are removed and how.
Meta Is Working On A Universal Speech Translator
Meta's latest AI project seeks to extend advanced translation options to lesser-used languages and to develop a universal speech translator.
Instagram Retires Boomerang And Hyperlapse Standalone Apps
Boomerang and Hyperlapse standalone apps have been removed from app stores as their functionality is already available within Reels.
Meta Demos Voice Controlled Builder Bot That Creates VR Spaces
Meta's latest AI research introduces a prototype technology capable of generating immersive objects through voice commands only.
Facebook Is Removing The Ability To Create Profile Frames
As part of its efforts to continue banning anti-vax messages, Meta is removing the ability for users to create frames.
Facebook Is About To Shut Down Campus
Facebook has informed users via an in-app message that it will be shutting down Campus - its college-focused social network.
