WhatsApp’s New Feature: Create Custom Stickers from Your Photos”
A recent leak unveils WhatsApp’s plans to introduce a feature allowing users to create personalised stickers from their own images, enhancing self-expression on the global messaging platform. This innovative function will enable users to customise conversations more uniquely and creatively, making chat interactions more personal and engaging. According to sources from WABetaInfo, as reported by Android Authority, Meta is currently developing an AI-powered image generator that will be integrated directly into WhatsApp. This tool is set to stand out from typical AI image generators by creating images that not only generate stickers but also mirror the user’s own appearance. To utilise this feature, users will need to upload their photos to Meta’s AI system, which will analyse them to create highly personalised stickers. These stickers can then be used to add a more personalised and visually engaging element to chat conversations.
In the latest WhatsApp Beta for Android, version 2.24.14.7, the process begins when users are prompted to upload several reference selfies. Once these images are provided, Meta’s AI technology analyses the selfies to understand distinct facial features and expressions. The AI then utilises this data to generate customised images that can be used as unique stickers in WhatsApp conversations. This feature allows for a highly personalised communication experience, reflecting the user’s own appearance in the stickers they use during chats.
In addition to generating personalised stickers, users can extend the functionality of this feature by typing “@Meta AI imagine me” in any chat. This command prompts the AI to generate images that depict the user in a variety of creative and fantastical settings. For example, users might find themselves digitally placed in lush forests, futuristic cities, or the vast expanse of outer space. This innovative feature not only enhances personal expression within the app but also adds an element of fun and creativity to everyday conversations by allowing users to see themselves in new and imaginative environments. The introduction of the Meta AI feature within WhatsApp is currently underway, starting with a phased rollout in select regions, such as the United States and India. Users eager to explore this new functionality should keep an eye out for a distinctive blue icon that will appear on the main chat list screen once the feature becomes available in their region. This icon serves as an indicator that the AI-powered image generation tool is ready for use. As the rollout progresses, availability may vary, with Meta continuing to expand the feature’s accessibility gradually across different regions. Users are encouraged to regularly check their app for updates and the appearance of the new icon to see when they can start creating their personalised AI-generated images.
WhatsApp is set to enhance its user experience with an innovative AI-powered feature allowing the creation of personalised stickers based on users’ own images. This feature, currently in beta testing and anticipated for public release soon, promises a new level of personalization on the popular messaging platform.
What We Know About the Feature Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, is integrating an AI-driven image generator into the app, as reported by WABetaInfo (via Android Authority). This generator stands out from typical AI tools by producing stickers that closely mirror the user’s appearance. To utilise this feature, users will need to upload their photos to Meta AI, which then processes these images to create personalised stickers for use in chats.
How It Works Presently available in the WhatsApp Beta for Android (version 2.24.14.7), the feature prompts users to submit several reference selfies. Meta AI analyses these images to craft customised stickers that capture the user’s likeness.
Users can also activate this feature in any chat by typing “@Meta AI imagine me,” which generates AI-created images set against various creative backdrops, from forest scenes to outer space themes.
Public Release Plans Although not yet available to all users, Meta has started deploying this feature in specific regions, including the U.S. and India. Users interested in accessing this feature should look for a new blue icon on the main chat list screen, indicating its availability. The rollout continues progressively across supported areas.
Data Privacy and Control Measures
A key highlight of this new capability is the control it grants users over their data. The feature requires manual activation, and users must upload their photos to engage it. All uploaded images can be easily removed at any time via the Meta AI settings, providing users with complete control over their personal data and ensuring their privacy is maintained. This upcoming feature from WhatsApp not only enriches user interaction by allowing more personalised communication but also adheres to stringent data privacy standards, giving users full autonomy over their digital representations.
Expanding AI Integration in WhatsApp
Meta continues to push the boundaries of AI interaction within WhatsApp, according to details from WABetaInfo. The platform is currently enhancing its capabilities by testing a new feature that allows users to select from different AI models for various needs.
Customizable AI Choices in WhatsApp
The recent beta versions of WhatsApp introduce a choice between two Llama AI models. Users can opt for the standard Llama 3-70B model for routine interactions or switch to the more robust Llama 3-405B for intricate queries. The Llama 3-405B model, notable for its advanced capabilities, incorporates a weekly usage limit, suggesting Meta’s plans to potentially introduce a subscription or pay-per-use model akin to services like ChatGPT.
Broader Tech Industry Trends
WhatsApp’s developments mirror broader trends in the tech industry, where giants like Apple and Google are also embracing personalised AI features. Apple, for instance, recently launched the Image Playground within its iMessage app, enabling users to craft unique, stylized images. Additionally, Apple’s Gemmoji offers a personalised emoji creation tool, further enhancing user expression through photos in communications. Google is not far behind, with rumours of a forthcoming app named Creative Assistant. Expected to launch alongside the Pixel 9 series, this app aims to allow users to generate personalised stickers and graphics through generative AI, signalling a significant step forward in user-customizable AI tools across platforms.
Implications for User Interaction
These advancements underscore a significant shift towards more personalised and interactive AI features across messaging platforms, enhancing user engagement and opening new avenues for monetization through advanced AI technologies. As these features evolve, they promise to redefine how users communicate and express themselves digitally, aligning with the ongoing trend of integrating sophisticated AI solutions into everyday tech experiences. SOURCE
Apple Nears Board Observer Role at OpenAI with New AI Agreement
Apple Inc. is set to secure an observer role on OpenAI’s board, reflecting a deepening alliance underscored by a recent significant agreement. This strategic position aligns Apple with Microsoft Corp., which has been a major supporter and the principal AI technology provider for OpenAI. Phil Schiller, a key figure at Apple, having led both the App Store and the company’s marketing division, has been appointed to this observer role. As a board observer, Schiller will have the right to attend board meetings, though he will not hold voting rights or other powers typically granted to full board directors. This role primarily allows him to gain a deeper understanding of OpenAI’s decision-making processes and strategic directions.
The establishment of this board observer role follows Apple’s integration of ChatGPT into its array of devices, including iPhones, iPads, and Macs, as part of an expansive rollout of artificial intelligence capabilities announced in June. This move signifies a significant step in collaboration between Apple and OpenAI, aiming to leverage synergies in technology and innovation. The observer role is expected to become effective later this year, with Schiller yet to participate in any board meetings. This development is part of ongoing adjustments and could evolve as the partnership between Apple and OpenAI continues to unfold. Representatives from both Apple and OpenAI have opted not to comment on the recent developments regarding board roles. However, the inclusion of Apple in board meetings alongside Microsoft presents a complex dynamic, given the historical competition and collaboration between these two tech behemoths.
Phil Schiller’s role as a board observer at OpenAI, while providing Apple with valuable insights, also raises potential concerns about conflicts of interest. This is particularly relevant in meetings where future AI collaborations between OpenAI and Microsoft are discussed. In such scenarios, it’s common practice for board observers to recuse themselves from discussions deemed sensitive or proprietary to prevent potential conflicts. This practice ensures that strategic deliberations involving Microsoft and OpenAI remain confidential, especially if they could influence competitive dynamics. The presence of both Apple and Microsoft in these settings highlights the delicate balance of maintaining transparent corporate governance while safeguarding competitive advantages. As AI technology continues to evolve and become more integral to corporate strategies, the roles and participation of companies like Apple and Microsoft in governance discussions at OpenAI could increasingly influence broader tech industry alliances and rivalries. Phil Schiller, while not directly leading Apple’s artificial intelligence efforts, brings a wealth of experience to his role as a board observer for OpenAI, given his deep involvement in Apple’s strategic brand management and product launches. Although Schiller stepped down from his position as head of marketing in 2020, he remains influential within Apple as an Apple Fellow, overseeing the App Store and continuing to manage Apple’s high-profile product launch events. His external role as a director at Illumina Inc., a prominent medical technology company, further enhances his broad oversight capabilities.
Apple’s collaboration with Open-AI represents a strategic alignment with one of the most significant players in the AI field, known not only for its pioneering technology but also for its contentious history. This includes notable incidents such as the temporary removal of CEO Sam Altman due to transparency issues with the board and criticisms over AI safety and ethical concerns, such as the unauthorised use of a voice resembling that of actress Scarlett Johansson. The integration of Open-AI technology forms a critical part of Apple’s expansive AI strategy, which includes proprietary innovations under the umbrella of Apple Intelligence. This suite of AI tools offers functionalities like summarising content, creating personalised emojis and images, and enhancing Siri’s capabilities—though many of these advancements are slated for future updates.
Interestingly, the partnership with Open-AI does not currently involve financial transactions. Instead, it provides Open-AI with access to Apple’s vast user base, potentially increasing the adoption of AI technologies. Conversely, Apple stands to benefit from the integration of Chat-GPT, satisfying consumer demand for sophisticated AI interactions within its ecosystem. This arrangement could also prove financially beneficial for Apple through App Store fees generated from a premium version of Chat-GPT available to its users. This partnership underscores a critical phase in Apple’s long-term AI strategy, which is increasingly important as Apple devices are known for their longevity and as the company continues to integrate more AI-driven functionalities into its ecosystem.
Apple is actively engaging in strategic discussions with several prominent technology companies to broaden its AI offerings. These discussions involve Alphabet Inc.’s Google and the AI startup Anthropic, focusing on integrating additional chatbot technologies into Apple’s services. Furthermore, Apple is exploring potential partnerships with major Chinese firms Baidu Inc. and Alibaba Group Holding Ltd., aiming to extend its AI features to devices within the Chinese market. This move is part of Apple’s broader strategy to enhance its global AI capabilities, initially launching Apple Intelligence in American English, with plans for a subsequent international rollout to cater to a wider user base.
Historically, Apple’s top executives have taken up director roles in various companies, which influences corporate strategies and fosters industry alliances. However, it is uncommon for Apple executives to serve on the boards of high-profile partners, making such appointments noteworthy. An exception was Apple’s brief directorship at DiDi Global Inc., following a significant investment of $1 billion. This investment in the Chinese ride-sharing company was part of Apple’s larger strategy to strengthen its presence in key international markets and diversify its investment portfolio. This pattern of strategic board placements underscores Apple’s approach to leveraging corporate governance as a tool for deepening business relationships and enhancing its strategic positioning in the global market. SOURCE
Meta’s latest AI can transform text into 3D images in seconds.
Meta has launched an innovative AI tool called “3D Gen,” designed to rapidly convert text descriptions into detailed 3D images. Revealed on Tuesday, this advanced system not only produces high-quality 3D visuals in less than a minute but also enhances them by applying new textures and skins based on textual prompts. This capability extends to images generated by the AI as well as those created by artists, allowing for versatile customization and creative expression. This development represents a significant advancement in AI-driven content creation, offering both speed and precision in generating complex three-dimensional graphics from simple text inputs. Meta’s 3D Gen model is advancing the field of AI-driven 3D content creation with its rapid rendering capabilities. According to recent research by Meta’s team, the model operates through a two-stage process, with the initial 3D model creation taking about 30 seconds using the 3D AssetGen model. Subsequent modifications to texture or overall appearance can be accomplished in an additional 20 seconds via the 3D TextureGen feature, which allows users to refine or completely alter textures through simple text prompts.
The 3D Gen model employs a unique method that represents 3D objects in three different spaces: view, volumetric, and UV texture space. This multifaceted approach ensures a more comprehensive rendering of 3D objects, enhancing the fidelity to text prompts and improving the overall visual quality and texture details. This innovative process has shown to outperform traditional single-stage models, with study annotators favouring the outputs of the two-stage process 68% of the time in trials. While this technology is still in development and not yet available for commercial use, the implications for creative industries are significant. The ability to quickly generate and modify high-quality 3D models could revolutionise fields such as video game design, film production, and virtual reality, making advanced 3D modelling more accessible to professionals and hobbyists alike. This could democratise 3D content creation, opening up new possibilities for innovation in digital storytelling and interactive media. SOURCE
Conclusion
Apple, and Meta in AI-driven technologies showcase a transformative period in digital communication and content creation. WhatsApp’s personalised sticker feature enhances user interactions, while Apple’s strategic observer role on Open-AI’s board positions it at the forefront of AI governance and integration. Meta’s ground breaking “3D Gen” model paves the way for rapid, text-to-3D image transformations, setting new standards for content creators across multiple industries. These advancements not only highlight the companies’ commitments to enhancing user experiences but also illustrate the dynamic nature of AI applications in today’s tech landscape. Discover how Arcot Group‘s innovative solutions can transform your business in the AI-driven world. Stay ahead of the curve with cutting-edge technologies that drive growth and efficiency. Connect with us today to explore how our expert strategies and tools can empower your enterprise!
