Instagram’s AI Comments: A Step Too Far?

Instagram is testing AI-generated comments, allowing users to post pre-written AI suggestions instead of their own words. While Meta claims this will boost engagement, it raises serious concerns about the authenticity of social interactions.

How AI-Generated Comments Work

👀 Some Instagram users have noticed a "pencil with a star" icon next to the comment field.
🤖 Tapping it generates a list of AI-powered comment suggestions tailored to the post.
📩 Users can select a response without needing to type their own thoughts.

This isn’t entirely new—LinkedIn already offers AI-generated comments, and Gmail has suggested replies. But while email is often business-oriented and formal, social media is supposed to be genuine and personal.

Why Is Meta Doing This?

Meta’s likely goal is to drive more engagement by making it easier to comment. The logic is simple:

🔹 More comments = more engagement = more time on the platform.
🔹 AI-generated replies could encourage more users to interact, even if they wouldn't normally.
🔹 More interactive posts could rank higher in Instagram’s algorithm, boosting visibility.

Meta is also reportedly working on AI bot profiles that interact like real users. Imagine a future where your posts are flooded with AI-generated comments, making social media feel “busier” than it really is.

My Take: This Is the Wrong Direction

I get why AI-generated replies make sense for email and business communication—formal responses are often needed, and AI can help streamline the process.

But social media should be different. It’s meant to be a space for real human interaction, creativity, and personal expression. If we keep moving in this direction, social media will no longer be social—it’ll just become bot media, filled with AI-generated noise instead of real conversations.

Engagement shouldn’t just be about numbers—it should be about meaningful connections. AI-generated comments may increase metrics, but they decrease authenticity.

Final Thoughts: The Future of AI in Social Media

If social media becomes a mix of humans and AI bots interacting with each other, will it still feel social? Or will it just be an illusion of engagement?

👀 What do you think? Do AI-generated comments ruin social media? Let’s discuss on X(Former Twitter)!

📢 References: Andrew Hutchinson, "Instagram Experiments With AI-Generated Comments on Posts," Social Media Today, March 16, 2025.https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/instagram-tests-ai-generated-comments-posts/742633/