Meta Platforms Boosts AI Ambitions Amid Backlash Over Instagram Map Feature

Meta Platforms faces backlash over Instagram Map feature, which shares users' last active location. Despite concerns, the feature is off by default and only visible to selected individuals. Meta continues to expand its AI capabilities through acquisitions like WaveForms AI and investments in Superintelligence Labs. Favorable tax legislation and robust advertising revenue position Meta well for future growth, with a strong buy consensus and high price target.

Meta Platforms (META) has recently faced criticism over the introduction of a new map feature on Instagram, which shares users' last active location. The feature, which rolled out earlier this week, has sparked concerns among users and lawmakers alike. Two U.S. senators, Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), have urged Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg to shut down the feature, citing potential risks to children [1].

The new map feature allows users to share their location in real-time with other users, with locations updated every time the app is used. While the feature is off by default and requires users to opt in, some users have reported their locations being shared automatically. Blackburn and Blumenthal argue that this feature could put children at risk, as it could be used by dangerous individuals, including pedophiles and traffickers [1].

Meta has defended the feature, stating that users must opt in to share their location and that parental controls are available to manage children's accounts. However, the senators argue that Meta's parental controls are difficult to understand and have failed to protect children online in the past [1].

Despite the controversy, Meta continues to expand its AI capabilities. The company recently secured a $29 billion financing deal to bolster its AI infrastructure, with Pacific Investment Management Co. (PIMCO) leading a $26 billion debt issuance and Blue Owl Capital contributing a $3 billion equity injection [3]. The funds will be used to accelerate the growth of Meta's AI infrastructure, marking a significant move in the company's expansion plans.

Wall Street analysts have forecast a potential upside of over 11% for Meta's stock, with a one-year price target averaging $848.50. The consensus among 71 brokerage firms rates Meta with an "Outperform" status, reflecting the overall positive sentiment among analysts [3].

In addition to its AI expansion, Meta is also positioning itself for future growth through favorable tax legislation and robust advertising revenue. The company's strong financial performance and strategic investments, such as those in WaveForms AI and Superintelligence Labs, indicate a promising outlook for the tech giant.

References:
[1] https://www.ksla.com/2025/08/09/group-us-senators-urge-meta-end-instagrams-new-map-feature/
[2] https://theoutpost.ai/news-story/meta-settles-ai-defamation-lawsuit-with-conservative-activist-robby-starbuck-18904/
[3] https://www.gurufocus.com/news/3048912/meta-platforms-meta-secures-29b-for-louisiana-data-center-expansion