A recent leak has revealed an exciting new feature in development for WhatsApp users: the ability to create personalized stickers using their own images.
This upcoming feature promises to enhance how users express themselves on the popular messaging platform.
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What We Know About the Feature
According to WABetaInfo (via Android Authority), Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, is developing an AI-powered image generator that will be integrated into the app.
Unlike typical AI image generators, this tool will create images that closely resemble the user's likeness. Users will need to upload photos of themselves to Meta AI for analysis, enabling the creation of customized stickers for use in chats.
How It Works
Currently spotted in the WhatsApp Beta for Android (version 2.24.14.7), users will be prompted to upload a few reference selfies. Meta AI will then analyze these selfies to generate customized images.
Additionally, users can activate this feature in other chats by typing "@Meta AI imagine me". These AI-generated images will place users in various imaginative backgrounds and themes, such as forests or even outer space.
As of now, this feature is not yet available to the public. However, the rollout of Meta AI within WhatsApp has begun in select regions, including the United States and India.
To check if the feature is available, users should look for a new blue icon on the main chat list screen. The rollout of the Meta AI chatbot is still ongoing, even within supported regions.
Data Privacy and Control
One of the significant advantages of this new feature is the level of control it offers users over their data.
Users must manually enable the feature and upload their setup photos, which can be deleted at any time through the Meta AI settings. This ensures that users retain full control over their images and privacy.
More AI Features Coming to WhatsApp
WABetaInfo tells us that Meta is also exploring options to enhance user interactions with AI.
The latest beta updates indicate that WhatsApp is working on a feature allowing users to select between different Llama models for AI interactions.
Users can choose the default Llama 3-70B model for simpler prompts or opt for the more advanced Llama 3-405B model for complex queries. The advanced model, Llama 3-405B, comes with a weekly usage cap, hinting at potential monetization strategies similar to competitors like ChatGPT.
Similar Features from Apple and Google
While WhatsApp is developing this feature, other tech giants have also started offering personalized image generation.
In June, Apple announced its Image Playground feature, which allows users to create fun images in various styles directly within the iMessage app.
A more comparable feature could be Apple's Gemmoji feature which offers personalized emojis based on photos, for use in messages and as stickers or reactions.
Additionally, Google is reportedly working on a new app called Creative Assistant, which will enable users to generate custom stickers using generative AI. This app is expected to debut with the upcoming Pixel 9 series later this year.
