TikTok Explores "Tako" Chatbot for Enhanced Video Discovery

Social media giant TikTok is venturing into the world of chatbots with "Tako," a new AI assistant designed to engage users in conversation about short videos and assist in content discovery. This article explores TikTok's latest endeavor, highlighting its significance in the evolving landscape of generative artificial intelligence. We also delve into the unique features of Tako and how it aims to enhance the TikTok experience for users.

Tako: TikTok's Chatbot Experiment

TikTok, a global sensation in the social media realm, has disclosed that it is in the early stages of experimenting with a chatbot named "Tako." The primary goal of Tako is to engage users in conversation and facilitate content discovery on the platform. While TikTok's chatbot is still undergoing testing, it has been made available to a select group of users in the Philippines as part of the trial phase.

The Generative AI Race

TikTok's entry into the chatbot arena is driven by the surge in interest in generative artificial intelligence (AI) technology. Last year, OpenAI introduced ChatGPT, a chatbot renowned for its natural and human-like interactions. This development prompted tech companies, including TikTok's rival Snap Inc, to harness the power of ChatGPT for their AI initiatives, such as Snap Inc's "My AI" project.

Tako's Mission: Discovering Entertaining and Inspiring Content

Tako has been crafted with a specific mission in mind: helping users uncover "entertaining and inspiring content" within the TikTok app. Its functionality revolves around engaging users in text-based conversations while they browse through videos. This unique feature is aimed at enhancing the user experience by providing real-time assistance in locating captivating content.

Tako's Appearance on TikTok

Recently, Watchful Technologies, an Israeli-based app intelligence firm, identified Tako within certain versions of the TikTok app on Apple mobile devices. The chatbot appears as a distinct ghost-shaped icon, prominently positioned on TikTok's interface. Users can simply tap this icon while watching videos to initiate text-based conversations with Tako and receive assistance in finding content.

Beyond Chat: A Navigation Assistant

Unlike ChatGPT, which offers versatile conversation capabilities, Tako serves more as a navigation assistant. Its primary objective is to encourage users to watch more videos while assisting with inquiries. For instance, if a user asks factual questions like "When was King Charles' coronation?" Tako not only provides the answer but also suggests relevant TikTok videos.

Interactive and Informative

Tako doesn't stop at answering questions; it also curates information and recommendations from TikTok users. For example, when asked, "How can we teach respect to children?" Tako not only summarizes tips from the TikTok community but also suggests related videos for further insight.

Disclaimer and Safety Measures

TikTok has emphasized that Tako is an experimental chatbot, and its responses may not always be accurate. To ensure user safety, TikTok has implemented safeguards, including reviewing conversations with Tako. Users are also cautioned not to share private or sensitive information with the chatbot.

Conclusion

TikTok's foray into the world of chatbots with Tako demonstrates the platform's commitment to innovation and user engagement. While the chatbot is still in its early testing phase, it holds the potential to revolutionize the way users discover and interact with content on TikTok. As generative AI technology continues to evolve, Tako is poised to play a pivotal role in enhancing the TikTok experience for millions of users worldwide.