Tako: TikTok’s New AI Chatbot Now Testing In The Philippines

TikTok is entering the artificial intelligence trend by testing its new Tako chatbot in the Philippines. Tako works like Microsoft Bing chat but for the short-form content platform. Tap it, and it will answer questions related to the video you’re watching. As a result, TikTok users enjoy more features, thanks to AI!

TikTok became the most visited website in 2021, and more young people use it as a search engine. The Tako AI chatbot may realize that function for users worldwide, causing more people to use the platform. More importantly, this development shows that artificial intelligence continues to expand its influence, and you must prepare!

This article will help you understand TikTok’s new feature, the Tako chatbot. I will cover its features and limitations, so you know how it would transform how everyone uses the internet. As a result, this article remains relevant even if you don’t use TikTok.

What are the Tako chatbot’s features?

Photo Credit: mpost.io

TechCrunch is the first to report about TikTok’s new AI-powered tool. The video-sharing platform said it is not available in the US but in select global markets, especially the Philippines.

Filipino users should check the bot on the right side of the app interface. Specifically, it is above the user profile and other buttons. Tap it to activate the Tako chatbot.

You can ask various questions about a video you’re watching by asking a simple question. For example, ask, “Why is King Charles III’s coronation important?” while watching a related clip.

It will suggest other videos that answer the same question. Moreover, the chatbot could list other relevant questions so that you can learn more about the content.

You may also ask Tako to recommend videos on a specific topic. For example, ask for funny dog videos, and the chatbot will show related clips.

A TikTok spokesperson told TechCrunch, “Being at the forefront of innovation is core to building the TikTok experience, and we’re always exploring new technologies that add value to our community.”

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“In select markets, we’re testing new ways to power search and discovery on TikTok, and we look forward to learning from our community as we continue to create a safe place that entertains, inspires creativity, and drives culture,” he added.

TechCrunch alleges that TikTok is working with an unknown third-party AI provider for the new service. Also, Tako reportedly does not include any proprietary AI tech from TikTok and its parent company ByteDance.

TikTok believes its new AI bot can do more than answer questions about videos. It could also become a different way for users to find content besides typing into a search box.

What are Tako’s limitations?

TikTok said it is testing an AI chatbot called 'Tako' with select users in the Philippines https://t.co/2bbUIjEvch pic.twitter.com/n9QNe8Qs8i

— Reuters (@Reuters) May 26, 2023

TikTok reminds users that its chatbot is a work in progress that can be prone to errors. First-time users will receive the following pop-up notification:

“Tako Is an experimental chatbot. It can answer questions and have conversations with you. Feedback from Tako is AI-generated and may not be true or accurate.”

“It should not be relied upon as advice on medical, legal, financial, etc. All conversations will be reviewed for safety purposes and to enhance your experience.”

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“Please do not share your private information with Tako,” the app reminds. The part about data collection and usage is a major sticking point for artificial intelligence systems.

These technologies are relatively new, so only a few countries have policies for them. Fortunately, TechCrunch says TikTok lets users delete their chats, but it is unclear if the AI bot logs sensitive information.

It may also struggle to expand worldwide as more countries like the United States ban TikTok. Still, we cannot confirm the future of this new artificial intelligence program.

Conclusion

TikTok is testing a new AI chatbot called Tako in the Philippines. Filipino users should test the new feature to enhance their app experience immediately.

It is an experimental project unsuitable for searching for professional or academic information. Double-check Tako’s information by checking other sources.

For example, head to Inquirer Tech once the AI chatbot recommends topics or content. It is an excellent source for the latest digital tips and trends.