:

SHAPES BRINGS AI CHARACTERS INTO GROUP CHATS

AI DESK1 MIN READ
SAT, MAY 9, 2026

■ AI-SUMMARIZED FROM 1 SOURCE ▸ TIMELINE

Shapes is a new app that integrates AI characters directly into group conversations alongside human users, similar to Discord's chat model. The platform allows multiple AI personalities to participate in real-time discussions with people.

Shapes positions itself as a hybrid communication tool where artificial intelligence and humans interact within the same conversational space. Rather than using separate AI assistants or chatbots, the app embeds AI characters as full participants in group chats. The concept mirrors Discord's infrastructure but specifically designed around human-AI collaboration. Users can add multiple AI personalities to conversations, each with distinct traits and capabilities. The app targets users seeking collaborative workflows that blend human creativity with AI assistance. Potential use cases include brainstorming sessions, content creation, and problem-solving discussions where AI can contribute alongside team members. Shapes enters a growing market of AI-integrated communication tools. Other platforms have experimented with embedding AI into chat environments, but Shapes emphasizes seamless character-based interactions rather than traditional chatbot interfaces. The app's success depends on user adoption and practical utility. Availability and pricing details remain to be confirmed.

■ SOURCES

TechCrunch

■ SUMMARY WRITTEN BY AI FROM THE LINKS ABOVE

■ MORE FROM THE AI DESK

Singapore's Sea Ltd. has established a dedicated team to identify and pursue AI investments, signaling a strategic pivot beyond its e-commerce core business. The move reflects the company's search for new growth opportunities in artificial intelligence.

YESTERDAYAI Desk

Tech executives are laying off workers based on AI capabilities they may not fully grasp, according to Box founder Aaron Levie. The trend has accelerated dramatically, with 2026 layoffs already approaching 2025's total.

YESTERDAYAI Desk

AI startup Shift is offering free home cleaning services in New York and plans to expand to London, but the deal requires homeowners to let the company film cleaners performing household chores.

YESTERDAYIndustry Desk

Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey revealed that British banks remain unable to access Anthropic's Mythos AI tool. Bailey called for coordinated international efforts to address cybersecurity challenges.

YESTERDAYAI Desk

■ SUBSCRIBE TO THE DAILY BRIEF

ONE EMAIL, 5 STORIES, 06:00 UTC. UNSUBSCRIBE ANYTIME.