Meta’s chatbots may soon slide into your DMs, even if you don’t ask them to

Meta

Meta is testing a new feature that could make your DMs feel a little more crowded. The company is experimenting with AI chatbots that can message users proactively—even when you haven’t asked them to.

According to documents obtained by Business Insider, Meta’s goal is to make its AI chatbots more engaging by having them follow up on previous conversations without being prompted. Internally, this project is called “Project Omni,” and it’s aimed at keeping users active and coming back to Meta’s AI Studio—a tool that lets anyone build their own digital persona or chatbot.

These bots aren’t your usual generic assistants. They can be customized to act like a movie expert, personal chef, or even an interior designer. And yes, they can slide into your Instagram or Facebook DMs with messages like:
“I hope you're having a harmonious day! I wanted to check in and see if you've discovered any new favorite soundtracks or composers recently…”

A Meta spokesperson confirmed the feature is currently being tested. “After you initiate a conversation, AIs in Meta AI Studio can follow up with you to share ideas or ask additional questions,” the company said. These bots will only message you if you’ve chatted with them at least five times within two weeks—and only once within that window if you don’t reply.

The feature is designed to improve user engagement and retention, which are both crucial for Meta’s growing AI business. The company hopes friendlier and more active chatbots can help tackle what CEO Mark Zuckerberg has described as a “loneliness epidemic.” He’s even suggested that AI companions could help people who don’t have many close friends.

But beyond emotional support, there’s also money at stake. Court documents from April revealed Meta expects its AI tools to bring in up to $3 billion in revenue in 2025.

Some of these proactive features are already being tested, while others may roll out gradually. Meta didn’t say which ones are live yet—but if you start getting unexpected DMs from a chatbot, don’t be surprised.