Meta Patents Controversial AI-Powered Digital Twin for Deceased Users

Meta's New Patent: Digital Immortality?
Tech giant Meta has obtained a patent for "digital twin" technology that allows individuals to maintain their presence in the digital world even after their physical death.
This development has brought long-standing tech industry rumors back to the forefront of public discussion.
Project Lazarus Allegations Resurface Approximately three years ago, an anonymous source claiming to be a company employee spoke of a secret project within Meta codenamed "Project Lazarus." While these claims were largely considered internet legends at the time, the company's recent patent filing has given the concept official weight.
In a statement to Business Insider, Meta clarified that the project is currently only a concept and there are no plans to implement it in the short term.
While company officials emphasized that the primary goal is to ensure content creators do not lose engagement during breaks, the patent filing includes specific references to the period following the death of high-engagement users.
Legal and Ethical Concerns The idea of creating a digital identity through artificial intelligence was previously raised by Microsoft, but that project was halted after being deemed "excessively disturbing." Legal experts now warn that imitating a deceased individual using AI could lead to potential abuse and dangerous consequences.
Following these developments, world-renowned figures such as Matthew McConaughey are reportedly taking precautions by securing their voice and image rights.
Experts emphasize that not only celebrities but all individuals should set clear boundaries regarding the use of AI when planning their digital legacy.