Meta is reportedly working on a standalone app for its AI assistant, Meta AI, aiming to broaden its accessibility beyond its existing platforms.
Currently integrated into Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, WhatsApp, and a web client, Meta AI has been limited in availability compared to standalone AI apps like OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini.
The new app could position Meta AI as a more direct competitor in the AI assistant space, offering users a more personalized experience.
According to a report from CNBC, Meta is targeting a launch window between April and June 2025. This aligns with CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s broader plans to expand Meta’s presence in AI development.
The move follows a trend set by OpenAI and Google, both of which have introduced dedicated AI chatbot apps that have gained widespread adoption.
AI Monetization Strategy
Meta is reportedly considering a subscription-based model for its AI assistant, similar to ChatGPT Plus and Google’s Gemini Advanced.
A premium version of Meta AI may introduce advanced capabilities for paid subscribers, offering additional value beyond the free version.
Meta’s CFO Susan Li has previously mentioned AI-driven monetization opportunities, including paid recommendations, indicating that AI could become a key revenue stream for the company.
While specific pricing details remain unclear, this move suggests Meta is looking to diversify its business model beyond its traditional ad-based revenue.
Large-Scale AI Investment Planned for 2025
Meta has outlined an AI investment plan ranging between $60 billion and $65 billion (roughly Rs 5.61 lakh crore) for 2025, significantly increasing from $39 billion in 2024. This funding is expected to go toward:
- New data centers to support AI operations
- Expansion of Meta’s AI teams
- Further development of Meta AI and Llama models
This investment places Meta among the largest AI investors, alongside OpenAI, Google, and Microsoft, reinforcing its competitive position in the AI space.
Growing User Base for Meta AI
Despite being limited to Meta’s platforms, Meta AI has already reached 700 million monthly active users, according to Susan Li.
The upcoming standalone app could help expand its reach even further, with Zuckerberg setting a goal of reaching 1 billion users by the end of 2025.
Meta’s First AI Developer Conference: LlamaCon
Meta is also planning to host LlamaCon, its first AI-focused developer conference, in late April 2025. The event is expected to highlight advancements in Meta AI, Llama models, and other AI projects, offering developers tools to build within Meta’s AI ecosystem.
Meta’s Stock Performance Amid AI Expansion
Meta’s stock saw limited movement following reports of its AI expansion, gaining less than 1% in extended trading after a 2% drop during the regular session.
However, shares have still increased 12% since the beginning of the year, reflecting investor confidence in Meta’s AI strategy despite market fluctuations.
Outlook for Meta’s AI App
While details about the standalone Meta AI app remain limited, the company’s approach suggests it aims to provide a more advanced and personalized AI assistant.
With OpenAI and Google already established in the AI chatbot space, Meta’s expansion into standalone AI services could be a key step in strengthening its position in the evolving AI landscape.
