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Facebook all set to unleash group chatbots for Messenger

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By John Glenday, Reporter

March 30, 2017 | 2 min read

Facebook is poised for a grand reveal of its latest Messenger innovation, a group chatbot service that can keep people up to speed where there is a requirement for real time data; such as news, sport and deliveries.

Building on its existing chat bots, the new breed of AI script will be opened to third party developers to enable them to push the service forward as they see fit.

The news was broken by Tech Crunch who gave the real-life example of sports fans coming together on Messenger with a sports bot automatically providing updates on big matches as they happen.

Unlike current versions, they will be able to keep many people abreast simultaneously rather offer only singular assistance. They will also focus on information only, avoiding any pretence at engaging in human-like conversation.

It is hoped that propagation through groups will also drive uptake as more people are exposed to bots and the utility they can provide.

Facebook has declined to officially comment on the matter but it’s believed the new tool will be formally unveiled at its F8 developer conference on 19 April.

In recent months, Facebook Messenger has revised its chatbot policy to quicken responses and allow limited forms of advertising.

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