Observed Signal · Aug 2, 2023 · Product Launch · Source: OnlineMarketing.de · Impact: 2/5 · Sentiment: Neutral
Animated Avatars Arrive on WhatsApp
WhatsApp is rolling out animated avatars to select testers, expanding the platform's existing avatar package with motion. The dynamic avatars aim to make avatar usage more interactive in chats and align with Meta's broader metaverse strategy, building on avatars that have been available on WhatsApp since late 2022. Early testers can access the feature via the Avatar tab in a chat, with animations visible to some contacts and not others as rollout occurs over the coming weeks. Meta has promoted avatar capabilities across its family of apps, including Facebook and Instagram, where avatars now support real-time video calls and other interactive features. The update underscores Meta's ongoing push to embed digital-identity tools across its platforms.
Minor feature rollout expanding avatar functionality in a messaging app; not industry-shifting.
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- First testers have access to animated WhatsApp avatars.
- Animated avatars extend the existing WhatsApp avatar package with motion.
- Rollout to more users is expected in the coming weeks per WABetaInfo.
- WhatsApp avatars have existed since late 2022 on the platform.
- Users can check the Avatar tab in a chat to see if animations are available.
Connected Companies & Entities
1 Entity mappedOntology Mapping & Concepts
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Grok Bot Searches X, Integrates Rival AI Models
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Instagram Edits App Now Supports Carousel Creation
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OpenAI defends advertising in ChatGPT for humanity's benefit
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