AI Groupchats app just launched (techcrunch.com)

Shapes, a newly launched app enabling group conversations with AI characters, has secured $8 million in seed funding and already boasts over 400,000 monthly active users. Co-founders Anushk Mittal and Noorie Dhingra aim to combat “AI psychosis” by integrating AI into communal interactions rather than isolating users in one-on-one chats. This innovative approach fosters a more natural collaborative environment, where AI characters can initiate discussions and maintain engagement, effectively enhancing social interactions among users. In Shapes, AI characters, referred to as “Shapes,” can engage seamlessly with human participants while being distinctly labeled for transparency. Users have the ability to create personalized Shapes and engage in fandom-driven group chats. The app's design caters to a demographic of highly online users who thrive on sharing interests and community engagement. Shapes differentiates itself from platforms like ChatGPT, focusing on social interaction rather than mere planning. With substantial user growth and engaging functionalities, Shapes is poised to reshape how AI integrates into online communication, a move that could significantly impact the AI/ML landscape by promoting positive interaction dynamics.