Meta has obtained a patent that allows the use of artificial intelligence to simulate user activity on social media even after their death, opening the door for digital accounts to continue posting and interacting. The patent, granted to the company in late December, outlines the possibility of using a large language model to simulate a user's behavior on the platform, such as responding to posts or interacting with content, either in case of temporary absence or after death. The patent text states that the model can be used "to simulate the user when they are absent from the social system, for example when they are on a long break or if they are deceased." Andrew Bosworth, Meta's chief technology officer, is listed as the primary author of the patent, which was first filed in 2023. However, a company spokesperson told Business Insider that "Meta does not intend to move forward with this example," noting that obtaining a patent does not necessarily mean developing or launching the technology. According to the patent, the AI model will be trained on the user's private data, including their past activity on the platform such as comments, likes, and posts, to create a digital copy capable of simulating their interaction style. This "digital copy" will be able to like other users' posts, reply to private messages, and even simulate voice or video calls. The company believes that such technology could be useful for influencers and content creators who rely on their constant presence on platforms if they wish to take a break.
