Google was developing an AI-powered mobile chatbot app specifically designed for Gen Z users. This app featured interactive digital characters that would engage in conversations with users. However, Google recently decided to “deprioritize” this project as part of an internal reorganization, resulting in the cessation of work on the app.
The app, known as “Bubble Characters,” allowed users to choose from various talking digital characters that would interact with them. Internal documentation revealed that Google had been working on this project since Q4 2021. Unfortunately, Google declined to comment on these developments when approached by CNBC.
According to the app’s description, Bubble Characters boasted “human-like” conversations that were both engaging and intriguing for Gen Z users. These conversations were powered by large language models, which are extensive datasets used to comprehend and generate text that closely resembles human speech.
The app’s description further stated, “What started out as something from a science fiction novel, became the next generation of human-level conversation.” This highlights the app’s innovative approach to creating an interactive experience for users.
CNBC was able to witness an example of the app in action, wherein a cartoon-like character engaged in friendly conversation, asked follow-up questions, and even offered relationship advice. This demonstrated the app’s potential to provide a personalized and unique user experience.
Bubble Characters was just one of several AI-powered projects utilizing Google’s large language models in recent months. Within the Assistant organization, which focuses on virtual assistant applications and two-way conversations across multiple platforms, there was a shift in priorities. Executives placed a greater emphasis on developing Bard, a competitor to ChatGPT, which led to some members of the Bubble Characters team being reassigned to work on Bard before its launch.
Interestingly, some prominent AI researchers at Google have departed from the company to establish their own chatbot companies. These ventures have attracted investments despite the relatively slow funding environment. Notably, Character.AI, a company founded by former Google researchers Noam Shazeer and Daniel De Freitas, raised $150 million in funding led by Andreessen Horowitz in February. This highlights the growing interest and investment in the chatbot industry.
In conclusion, Google’s decision to deprioritize the development of an AI-powered mobile chatbot app for Gen Z users has shifted the focus within the organization. While Bubble Characters offered the potential for engaging and human-like conversations, the company redirected its efforts towards other projects such as Bard. Despite this change, the chatbot industry continues to thrive as evidenced by the success of ventures led by former Google researchers.
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