• AI chatbot summoned directly into conversations
• Backlash grows over lack of full blocking option

Meta has begun testing a new feature on Threads that allows users to summon Meta AI directly inside conversations and replies, in a move aimed at boosting real-time interaction within the app.

The feature allows users to mention the account “@meta.ai” to ask questions about trending topics, breaking news, sports, and entertainment, with the chatbot providing explanations, recommendations, or added context without requiring users to leave the platform.

Meta confirmed the tool is still in beta and currently available to a limited group of users in countries including Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Mexico, Argentina, and Singapore.

The feature has drawn comparisons to Grok on X, where users can call on AI during conversations to receive instant answers or explanations about trending discussions.

However, the rollout has sparked criticism from users frustrated by the inability to fully block the “@meta.ai” account, with some reporting errors when attempting to do so.

Angry reactions quickly spread across Threads, with users demanding a proper blocking option, while others threatened to delete the app if the feature continued without clearer controls.

Responding to the criticism, a Meta spokesperson said users can mute AI replies, hide them, or mark them as “not interested,” though many users argue those options are not equivalent to fully blocking the account.

The backlash reflects growing debate over the expanding presence of artificial intelligence across social media platforms, as Meta continues integrating AI tools into Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, and Threads.

The company says it will continue gathering user feedback during the testing phase before expanding the feature more broadly worldwide.