Meta’s New Feel-Good AI Ad Uses a Song About the World Ending

Meta ran an Instagram ad pitching AI as a force that keeps people connected, using David Bowie’s bleak 1972 song “Five Years” as the soundtrack.

The video leaned on cheerful family scenes, a Knicks parade clip, and safe smart-glasses use, which clashed with the song’s apocalyptic lyrics.

Critics pointed to the mismatch between the music and the message, while Meta said Bowie’s own comments and standard licensing practices supported the choice.

The ad underscores how tech companies use familiar songs and upbeat branding to frame AI and wearables in a more positive light.