Facebook launches bot that reads users' messages to help 'manage conversations' in UK

Facebook has launched an artificial intelligence bot that reads users’ messages to makes suggestions and help “manage conversations” in the UK.

The AI assistant, named M, will offer shortcuts to features it believes are relevant based on conversations within the social network’s Messenger app.

The new technology, which was launched in the US earlier this year, will appear in message threads automatically.

It will suggest payment methods when money is being discussed, or start a poll when a group decision is being mentioned in a Facebook chat.

"M relies on AI machine learning techniques. It suggests relevant actions to help manage conversations or help get things done," Facebook said.

"We are bringing the power of M's AI technology to support and enhance the Messenger experience and make it more useful, personal and seamless."

M can also offer to initiate a voice or video call, as well as prompt users to send birthday messages to friends and family.

The M feature joins a growing number of AI-powered virtual assistants that respond to the voice or text-based commands of users.

Facebook's assistant joins the likes of Amazon's Alexa - which powers the Echo and Echo Dot smart speakers - as well as Google Assistant, which appears in many Android smartphones as well as the Google Home smart speaker.

In June, Apple announced plans to integrate its own Siri voice assistant into the HomePod, a home music speaker due to be released in December.

Users who do not wish to use M can turn off the assistant's suggestions in the app settings, Facebook said.