Meta's Hatch AI: New Consumer Agent & Revenue Push

Meta Platforms is preparing to launch a new consumer AI agent called Hatch. This conversational AI is trained to access websites like DoorDash, Etsy, and Reddit. Hatch could launch as early as late August or early September. Meta is also developing a new AI model named Watermelon, with an unveiling planned for October. The company is also creating a platform within WhatsApp for users to chat with other AI agents, with a pilot service starting this week. Hatch is part of Meta's strategy to diversify revenue beyond advertising. There are plans to offer Hatch with tiered pricing, with a premium monthly subscription potentially up to $199.99. Meta continues to accelerate its AI efforts, including releasing improved models like Muse Spark 1.2 and emphasizing an open-source AI strategy. These developments show Meta's push into the competitive AI landscape.