WhatsApp is set to introduce a groundbreaking feature that will allow users to create personalised AI avatars of themselves in various virtual settings. The feature, discovered in the WhatsApp Beta for Android version 2.24.14.7, utilizes a combination of user-provided images, text prompts, and Meta’s AI Llama model to generate custom avatars. Users will have the ability to visualize themselves in any setting, ranging from the forest to outer space, making the experience highly immersive and engaging.
To create these custom avatars, WhatsApp users will need to upload photographs of themselves to serve as reference images for Meta AI. By typing commands such as “Imagine me” followed by a description of the desired setting in Meta AI chat or using “@Meta AI imagine me…” in other WhatsApp conversations, users can easily generate their personalised avatars. This optional feature will allow users to have control over their personal data by providing the flexibility to delete reference images stored in Meta AI settings at any time, ensuring privacy and security.
While there is no specific timeline for the general availability of this new AI avatar feature, WhatsApp is gradually rolling out support for its Meta AI chatbot and real-time AI image generation capabilities in the United States. The launch of the AI avatar feature may be subject to a phased deployment as WhatsApp and Meta address the complexities associated with generative AI tools. Meta is taking a cautious approach to ensure the functionality and security of this upcoming feature, considering the challenges that have arisen with generative AI technologies in the past.
As development advances, WhatsApp users can look forward to a new level of personalisation and creativity in their messaging experience, thanks to the integration of advanced AI capabilities. The ability to create custom avatars and immerse oneself in various virtual settings will undoubtedly enhance the overall user experience on the platform. This innovative feature marks a significant step towards leveraging AI technology to provide users with engaging and interactive communication tools, setting WhatsApp apart as a leader in the messaging space.