AI chatbots, such as ChatGPT, are increasingly piquing the interest of businesses, with tech giants like Google and Microsoft pioneering their integration into their product suites. TikTok is now also venturing into this domain by testing its proprietary AI chatbot, Tako. Currently undergoing limited testing in the Philippines, Tako aims to assist users with search and discovery within the app.
“Tako is underpinned by a third-party chat assistant, aiming to simplify the discovery of entertaining and inspiring content on TikTok,” the TikTok communications team posted on Twitter.
Understanding How TikTok Chat Will Operate
As reported by TechCrunch, the chatbot will manifest on the right side of the TikTok interface, situated above the user’s profile, and additional options for likes, comments, and bookmarks. Once activated, users can ask Tako various questions about the video using natural language queries or request new content recommendations.
For instance, if you’re searching for content related to Lionel Messi, you can request Tako to suggest some relevant videos. The bot will provide a results list featuring the video’s title, creator, and subject matter. Users can then select a video thumbnail to view the content.
“Innovation is at the heart of shaping the TikTok experience. We continually explore new technologies that can enrich our community,” a spokesperson for TikTok told the publication.
“In select markets, we’re experimenting with new ways to enhance search and discovery on TikTok, eagerly anticipating learning from our community as we strive to foster a safe environment that encourages entertainment, creativity, and cultural influence,” they added.
The company clarified that there are no further plans for the chatbot beyond these initial tests.
A Responsible Approach
According to the report, when users first interact with the AI chatbot on TikTok, they will receive a pop-up message informing them that Tako is an “experimental” tool and its responses “may not be completely accurate or factual.” This disclaimer is consistent with those offered by other modern AI chatbots. TikTok also stressed that the chatbot should not be used for medical, legal, or financial advice.
