Snapchat, the popular multimedia messaging app, has experienced a sudden surge in 1-star reviews on app stores, with users expressing dissatisfaction and frustration over its recently introduced “My AI” feature.
The feature, powered by OpenAI’s GPT technology, was rolled out last week to provide personalized content and suggestions.
However, just in seven days, it has faced backlash from users who are unhappy with its performance and concerned about invading their privacy. Users have urged Snapchat to remove the feature through various social media platforms.
The Alleged Intrusion
The “My AI” feature uses artificial intelligence algorithms to analyze user behavior, preferences, and interests to deliver personalized content. However, many users have complained that the AI system often delivers irrelevant content and fails to meet their expectations, while others have voiced concerns about the invasion of their privacy.
According to data from app intelligence company Sensor TowerIn, the past week, Snapchat’s average rating in the U.S. App Store dipped to 1.67, striking 75% of reviews being one-star.
This starkly contrasts with Q1 2023, when the app’s average U.S. App Store rating was 3.05, and only 35% of reviews were one-star. “My AI” produces suggestions that don’t match users’ interests at all.
Summing up the dissatisfaction, several tweets have claimed that Snapchat’s ‘My AI’ is a hardcore invasion of privacy, and the content it suggests is completely off the mark. The hashtag, ‘#RemoveMyAI”, has since gained momentum, with thousands of users joining the call to remove the feature.
Snapchat Responds to Criticism, Promises Improvement
In response to the growing discontent, Snapchat has acknowledged the concerns of users and promised improvements in the near future.
Furthermore, Snapchat has emphasized that its primary goal is to enhance user experience and provide content that aligns with individual preferences and interests.
Snapchat also explained that the company is looking into options for users to have more control over the extent of data collection and personalization.
As the debate around Snapchat’s “My AI” feature continues to grow, experts in the field of artificial intelligence and privacy have weighed in on the controversy. It’s being said that AI-driven personalization can greatly enhance user experience. Still, it’s crucial for companies like Snapchat to strike the right balance between offering customized content and respecting user privacy.
The sudden spike in negative reviews has undoubtedly put pressure on Snapchat to promptly address the issues surrounding the “My AI” feature. As the company works to rectify the situation, it’s yet to be revealed whether the promised improvements will placate dissatisfied users and assuage their privacy concerns.
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Krishi Chowdhary
Journalist
