Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg says billions of people will have personal artificial intelligence (AI) agents within the next five years, capable of helping users achieve their goals around the clock.

Speaking during Meta’s quarterly earnings call with investors, Zuckerberg said the AI agents would understand users’ objectives and assist with tasks such as managing finances, health, relationships and household responsibilities.

He added that messaging platforms, particularly WhatsApp, would play a central role in how people interact with multiple AI agents, noting that the app is already Meta’s leading platform for AI engagement.

Zuckerberg’s remarks come as technology companies race to develop AI systems that can perform tasks on behalf of users rather than simply respond to prompts. Companies including Google and Anthropic are also investing heavily in agentic AI technologies.

Meta continues to increase spending on AI infrastructure despite concerns from some investors over rising costs.

The company recently announced a partnership with BlackRock to develop a US$14 billion data centre in El Paso, Texas, while Zuckerberg said AI agents would form the foundation of Meta’s future products and revenue streams.

The company also disclosed that more than one million businesses have adopted its AI business agents on WhatsApp and Messenger since their global rollout.