Meta has launched a new promotional campaign highlighting its vision for artificial intelligence, but the advertisement is drawing attention for an unexpected reason the background music.

The company released a feel-good AI commercial promoting optimism, creativity, and human connection. However, the ad uses David Bowie’s classic song “Five Years,” a track widely known for its themes about the end of the world and humanity’s uncertain future.

While Meta intended to present AI as a technology that brings people together, many viewers questioned whether the song’s original meaning sends a conflicting message.

Meta Wants AI to Feel More Human

The advertisement focuses on everyday moments between families, children, friends, and communities.

Throughout the video, Meta argues that artificial intelligence should help people stay connected instead of replacing human relationships.

The campaign also showcases Meta’s AI-powered products, including its smart glasses, while emphasizing practical and positive everyday uses.

The narration encourages viewers to see AI as a tool that supports creativity and personal growth rather than something to fear.

Why the Song Choice Created Controversy

Although the commercial highlights optimism, the soundtrack raised eyebrows.

Meta selected David Bowie’s “Five Years,” a song released in 1972 that tells the story of a world with only five years left before its destruction.

The advertisement features only a small section of the song that speaks about people and everyday life, while leaving out lyrics that describe Earth’s impending end.

Because of this contrast, many technology observers and music fans felt the soundtrack didn’t match the video’s positive message.

Meta Defends Its Decision

Meta responded by pointing to comments David Bowie made about the song decades ago.

According to the company, Bowie described the track as encouraging optimism despite uncertainty and believed technology could help shape a better future.

Meta says the advertisement reflects that hopeful interpretation rather than focusing on the song’s darker storyline.

Experts See Mixed Reactions

Some music experts believe using songs outside their original context has become common in advertising.

However, others argue that choosing a song closely associated with an apocalyptic narrative for an AI campaign may unintentionally create mixed signals.

The discussion has quickly spread across social media, with many users debating whether the decision was creative marketing or simply a poor choice.

AI Companies Continue Image Campaigns

Meta is not the only technology company trying to improve public perception of artificial intelligence.

Several AI companies have recently launched emotional marketing campaigns designed to reassure users that AI will benefit society.

These advertisements often focus on themes such as:

  • Human creativity
  • Innovation
  • Family connections
  • Trust in technology
  • Responsible AI development

As competition in the AI industry grows, companies are investing heavily in branding alongside product development.

Why Public Trust Matters

Artificial intelligence is becoming part of everyday life through smartphones, search engines, productivity software, and wearable devices.

Because of this rapid adoption, technology companies are increasingly trying to convince consumers that AI can improve lives without replacing human creativity or relationships.

Marketing campaigns like Meta’s show that public trust is becoming just as important as technological innovation.

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