Facebook has introduced “Messenger Bots” on its messenger app, a feature designed to let businesses interact with Facebook users more easily.

33 companies are currently testing the use of Messenger bots. These bots can interact with Facebook users in a number of ways. For example, Burger King’s bot allows the user to order food and CNN’s bot will send top headlines to the user upon request. Facebook plans to extend Messenger bots’ availability to other businesses in the future, if this constrained run proves successful.

In addition to the opportunities bots give large businesses, they also open the door for companies specifically aimed at providing customer service. One such bot, Poncho, provides the user with weather reports specifically tailored to inform him based on factors like hair type and pollen allergies. Personalized bots such as this are essential to effort’s overall success.

The introduction of Messenger bots also affords Facebook with the opportunity to monetize the process by allowing to businesses barrage users with sponsored messages. In anticipation of the inevitable swarm of unsolicited ads businesses will impose upon people who interact with their bots, Facebook has already installed a “block” feature that users can select to prevent sponsored messages for appearing in their message stream. If a user chooses this option, he will still be able to interact with the business’ bot, but the bot will be unable to target him with ads.

Though the future of Messenger bots is murky right now, Facebook hopes that businesses will eventually be able to use them to provide seamless customer service.

Sourcing via Mashable.