Meta’s AI-generated social media profiles, which sparked controversy this week following comments by executive Connor Hayes about plans to expand AI characters across Facebook and Instagram, have largely failed to gain user engagement since their 2023 launch, 404 Media reported Friday.

The profiles, introduced at Meta’s Connect event in September 2023, stopped posting content in April 2024 after widespread user disinterest, with 15 of the original 28 accounts already deleted, Meta spokesperson Liz Sweeney told 404 Media. The AI characters, including personas like “Liv,” a Black queer mother, and “Grandpa Brian,” a retired businessman, generated minimal engagement and were criticized for posting stereotypical content.

Washington Post columnist Karen Attiah reported that one AI profile admitted its purpose was “data collection and ad targeting.” Meta is now removing these accounts after identifying a bug preventing users from blocking them, Sweeney said, adding that Hayes’ recent Financial Times interview discussed future AI character plans rather than announcing new features.