Facebook and Instagram Accounts of the Deceased Can Remain "Active", Meta Prepares This Technology

Technology company Meta has reportedly obtained a patent for artificial intelligence (AI) technology that allows user accounts to remain active on social media, even after their owners have passed away. This technology leverages large language models (LLMs) to imitate users’ digital behaviour, from writing style and interactions to responses to content on the platform. In the patent document, the AI will be trained using users’ activity data, such as posts, comments, and previous interactions, enabling it to “operate” the account as if it were still controlled by the original owner. With this system, inactive user accounts—whether due to hiatus or death—could potentially continue to make posts, reply to comments, and interact with other users automatically. Additionally, this technology could simulate a user’s digital presence in various situations, not only after death but also when users are inactive for extended periods. Although the patent has been granted, Meta has clarified that the technology is still merely a concept and not necessarily destined to become an actual feature on its platforms. This aligns with common practices in the technology industry, where companies often file patents for various ideas, even if not all will be further developed. On the other hand, the concept raises various concerns, particularly regarding privacy and ethics, as reported by KompasTekno citing Business Insider. Several observers argue that such technology could create new issues, such as the use of personal data after death and the psychological effects on family members or loved ones left behind. Meta is not the only company exploring similar concepts. Previously, other technology firms have developed or patented technologies that enable the digital simulation of individuals based on left-behind data, including chatbots that mimic personal personalities. However, to date, most of these technologies remain at the experimental stage and have not been widely adopted by the public.