Character.AI, a leading AI chatbot startup supported by a16z and founded by former Google AI experts, has unveiled a novel feature for its community of users. Recognized for its platform that enables users to design AI buddies boasting unique personalities, Character.AI is now broadening its horizons. The platform is introducing the “Character Group Chat” function, an innovative feature that enables users to chat simultaneously with several AI entities.
This fascinating feature not only lets users engage in group chats with their chosen AI characters but also presents an option to include both AI entities and human participants in the same chat. The core idea behind this innovation is to enrich user interaction by integrating AI companions, facilitating users in building social ties, brainstorming collectively, and participating in riveting discussions, all while having their AI allies by their side. Imagine orchestrating a conversation among AI versions of legendary minds like Albert Einstein, Nikola Tesla, Marie Curie, and Stephen Hawking, or perhaps diving into myths with characters like Zeus and Hades. The possibilities are virtually endless.
The platform doesn’t stop at whimsical interactions; it brings practicality to the forefront. Users can set up themed group chats, talk about books, role-playing games, or travel, and summon an AI partner to steer and amplify those discussions. The concept of blending AI chatbots in group conversations isn’t groundbreaking; Snapchat’s My AI and Meta have ventured into similar territories. For instance, Meta, during their Connect conference, introduced several celebrity-based AI bots for their suite of apps, seemingly challenging Character.AI, especially after the latter secured a commendable $150 million in a Series A funding round focusing on AI companion ventures.
Yet, Character.AI is not planning to freely distribute its latest group chat feature. Initially, they are rolling it out for their premium subscribers under the c.ai+ plan, priced at $9.99 monthly. This move aims to gather valuable feedback and refine the experience further. The c.ai+ subscription already boasts perks like quicker message generation and a dedicated channel for feedback. However, Character.AI has promised to make this group chat feature accessible to a broader audience in the near future.
As of now, this group chat functionality is exclusive to Character.AI’s mobile application, compatible with both iOS and Android. Plans to expand its availability to web platforms are on the horizon. The company’s app has already made a significant mark, boasting over half a million downloads in merely its first week. Reports suggest that it’s giving stiff competition to ChatGPT in the U.S. market. Preliminary data suggests the app has an impressive global user base nearing 30 million monthly active users, with about 7 million from the U.S. alone. While the in-app purchase revenue stands at an estimated $1.3 million, it’s worth noting that the c.ai+ subscription’s sales occur on the web, indicating these figures might not paint the full revenue picture.