Meta launched AI optimism ad using song about human extinction
Meta Platforms has released a new advertising campaign highlighting AI's positive potential. However, the campaign's choice of soundtrack, David Bowie's "Five Years," has drawn attention due to its bleak lyrics about humanity's end.
Meta Platforms, formerly Facebook, launched a new advertising campaign in late July 2026 aiming to portray artificial intelligence (AI) in a positive and forward-looking light. The campaign focuses on illustrating human connection and future possibilities enabled by AI.
The advertisement opens with a somber depiction of AI-related anxieties, reflecting fears found in news headlines. A voiceover states, "Some people will have you believe AI is going to make us feel less connected. That it’s going to leave us behind." Meta directly counters these concerns, stating, "We couldn’t disagree more." The video transitions to vibrant scenes of happy individuals in various settings, symbolizing positive progress.
However, the campaign's soundtrack, David Bowie's 1972 song "Five Years," tells the story of humanity learning about an impending apocalypse within five years. The lyrics describe chaos and desperation, sparking questions about Meta's advertising strategy. While the ad's message is optimistic, the choice of background music has been interpreted as contradictory and ironic.
Meta, having invested heavily in AI development, seeks through this advertisement to assure the public of AI's benefits and its potential to improve lives. The company aims to project an image of responsible technological advancement for the common good. Nevertheless, the advertisement has prompted discussions regarding the appropriateness of the music selection and AI's actual societal role.