Meta has launched a new advertisement promoting its vision for artificial intelligence, but the campaign is attracting attention for an unexpected reason. While the ad delivers an optimistic message about AI, it uses David Bowie’s classic song “Five Years,” a track widely known for its lyrics about humanity facing a mass-extinction event.
The advertisement begins by showing headlines warning that AI could replace jobs, isolate people, and create global problems. It then shifts to colorful scenes of people spending time with family and friends, highlighting Meta’s belief that AI can help people connect rather than divide them.
In the ad, the narrator says:
“Some people will have you believe AI is going to make us feel less connected. That it’s going to leave us behind. We couldn’t disagree more.”
The campaign ends with another message:
“Call us optimists. Call us dreamers. Call us whatever the hell you want. But we’re betting on people, and we like those odds. The future is for everyone.”
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg also shared the campaign and explained the company’s vision in an official statement:
“Meta has always believed in giving people the power to share, connect, and shape your world in the ways you want. As we enter this next wave with AI, we continue to believe the future is for everyone. We’re focused on giving every person the tools to reach your full potential and making sure the benefits of technology are distributed to everyone.”
Despite the positive message, many online discussions have focused on the soundtrack. Bowie’s “Five Years” tells the story of humanity learning that Earth has only five years left before a global extinction event. Critics argue that using the song creates a confusing contrast with Meta’s hopeful AI message.
The debate comes as public trust in AI remains mixed. According to a recent Pew Research Center survey, only 16% of Americans believe AI will have a positive impact on society over the next 20 years, while 40% expect a negative impact.
As Meta continues investing heavily in AI, the advertisement highlights both the company’s optimistic vision and the growing public conversation about how artificial intelligence should shape the future.
