Observed Signal · Oct 28, 2024 · Technical Release · Source: OnlineMarketing.de · Impact: 4/5 · Sentiment: Neutral
New Avatar Looks on Instagram & WhatsApp
Meta has rolled out a broad avatar update across Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp, featuring more detailed designs and a wide range of customization options. Users can create multiple avatar variants and switch between them, with researchers sharing early looks on Threads. WhatsApp is testing Pixar-inspired avatars with even greater control and multiple variants. Avatars are increasingly integrated into Stories via stickers, and Instagram has previously tested avatar stickers for comments. The updates appear already active for many users, and guidance is provided on how to edit profiles to create or modify avatars. Additionally, the new avatar experiences emphasize more detailed appearances, broader customization options, and fluid switching between variants, enabling users to tailor identities for different contexts. The changes are part of Meta's broader strategy to boost creative expression across its social apps and strengthen inter-platform identity experiences.
Major platform feature update (Meta) affecting social platforms and user engagement.
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- Meta rolled out a broad avatar update across Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp with more detailed designs and broader customization options.
- Users can create multiple avatar variants and switch between them, with early looks shared on Threads by researchers.
- WhatsApp is testing Pixar-inspired avatars with greater control and multiple variants.
- Avatars are increasingly used as stickers on Instagram Stories, with earlier tests for avatar stickers in comments.
- The rollout is already active for many users and includes guidance on editing profiles to create or modify avatars.
Connected Companies & Entities
1 Entity mappedRelated Market Signals & Shifts
Recent verified developments and strategic activity across this market segment.
Grok Bot Searches X, Integrates Rival AI Models
SpaceXAI has enhanced its AI agent Grok Bot with the ability to continuously search and analyze the entire X platform. Users can now deploy the agent for 24/7 social listening, brand monitoring, and trend analysis, similar to Google's Information Agents. Grok Bot will also integrate other AI models from competitors, such as Claude Opus 5.5, Midjourney, and Suno, depending on the task. This move signals a shift towards multi-model AI agents and expands the capabilities of AI-driven social media analytics.
Instagram Edits App Now Supports Carousel Creation
Instagram's Edits app now allows creators to create Carousel posts directly within the app, according to an announcement by Instagram's Creators account via Instagram and Threads. The feature is available immediately for iOS users, with an Android version expected soon. In a broadcast channel, Instagram head Adam Mosseri confirmed that users can mix photos and videos on any slide, connect images across slides, and use the same stickers, text effects, and cutouts used in video editing. This functionality aims to streamline content creation and boost engagement, as Carousels remain a popular format on the platform. Additionally, the Edits AI Assistant, which provides video ideas based on account metrics, is currently available only in the US. Meta continues to enhance its creator tools to support social media marketing efforts.
Global ad market grows 11.9% in 2026; print, TV weak
According to Warc Media's forecast, the global advertising market is set to grow by 11.9% in 2026 to $1.34 trillion, following 10% growth in 2024 and 2025. Key growth drivers include investments in AI and major events like the Olympics and the FIFA World Cup. Social media will see the strongest growth at 21.3% to $394.6 billion, followed by VOD, retail media, search, and DOOH. Traditional media declines: TV down 1.8%, print down 0.9%, and radio down 3.0%. Alphabet, Amazon, and Meta will capture a combined 59.7% of global ad spend outside China. The growth is expected to normalize to 8.4% in 2027 and 7.9% in 2028. AI is reshaping targeting, creative, and campaign optimization, and creating new ad environments like generative search.
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