By Islam Salah
According to Fares Akkad, Meta’s regional director, in an exclusive interview with Arab News, Meta has officially launched its AI assistant, Meta AI, in the Middle East—a significant move to bring advanced AI tools to millions across the region, with a special focus on Arabic language support.
This launch marks a key step in Meta’s efforts to make AI more accessible to a broader audience.
Meta AI Overview
Meta AI is powered by the company’s latest Llama 3.2 large language model and is integrated into widely used platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. This means that users don’t need to download or sign up for anything new to utilize the AI assistant.
It’s designed to be entirely free and built into existing apps, making it easy for people to use without additional barriers. The goal is to democratize access to AI tools, especially in areas where newer hardware may not be as common.
Regional Launch and Language Support
Meta AI is rolling out gradually across key Middle Eastern countries, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, Jordan, and Iraq. A standout feature of this launch is the addition of Arabic language support, which is crucial for making AI tools relevant to the region.
The rollout will be phased, and while many users have already started using the platform, others can expect access in the coming weeks.
Accessibility and Benefits of Meta AI
Meta AI’s integration into popular platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp opens up new opportunities for both individuals and businesses in the Middle East.
For everyday users, this means AI tools can now assist with everything from language translation and content creation to personal productivity, all within apps they already use.
Businesses, too, can tap into Meta AI’s capabilities for customer service automation, marketing insights, and even content generation, making it easier for them to engage with local audiences in a more personalized way.
Safeguards and Misinformation Prevention
Meta is aware of the concerns surrounding the use of generative AI and its potential for spreading misinformation. To address these issues, Meta has incorporated safeguards into the AI service, including built-in filters that prevent harmful or misleading content.
Beyond that, AI-generated images will feature watermarks, hidden markers, and metadata to help users distinguish between real and AI-created content. Plus, Meta is committed to improving its AI tools continuously, updating them every two weeks based on user feedback to ensure that they remain reliable and safe to use.
A New Era of AI in the Middle East: Empowering Users and Businesses
Meta AI’s launch in the Middle East is a significant development in the region’s AI landscape. By supporting the Arabic language and integrating the tool into popular Meta platforms, the company is making advanced AI tools more accessible to millions of users.
This move aligns with Meta’s broader goal of democratizing AI and improving its adoption across different user segments, all while prioritizing safety and accuracy in its AI services.
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