At the recent Connect conference, Meta unveiled an exciting overhaul of its metaverse avatars, set to launch on October 1st.
This upgrade will be accessible across various platforms, including Meta Horizon OS, Facebook, Instagram, and Messenger, marking a significant step forward in how users can represent themselves in the virtual world.
Meta’s avatars have come a long way from their humble beginnings, evolving steadily over time.
The latest enhancements will empower users with an unprecedented level of customisation.
Aigerim Shorman, Vice President of the Horizon team, announced onstage that individuals will soon be able to adjust features like eye size, nose shape, and body types, thanks to a revamped avatar skeleton and a new underlying technology stack.
This means users will not only have a more accurate representation of themselves but can also express their uniqueness in a more nuanced manner.
In a nod to the increasing integration of generative AI into everyday applications, Meta plans to introduce a feature in 2025 that allows users to create avatars simply by typing in a descriptive prompt.
Shorman showcased this functionality with a playful example, demonstrating how the AI could transform her avatar into a spooky mummy.
“Just describe what you want, and watch your avatar come to life,” she explained, illustrating the ease with which users can personalise their virtual identities.
For those who wish to embrace a more fantastical appearance, Meta is also rolling out new avatar types that allow users to style themselves as animals or mythical creatures.
Imagine donning the persona of a majestic wolf or a playful dragon as you interact with friends in the metaverse.
Furthermore, users can unlock themed avatars based on popular culture, including iconic characters like Captain America from “Captain America: Brave New World” or Doja Cat’s stunning ensemble from the 2023 Paris Fashion Week.
This adds a layer of excitement and connection to beloved franchises, enticing users to explore more within Horizon Worlds.
Starting in 2025, developers in Horizon Worlds will have the capability to create non-player characters (NPCs) that enhance user interactions within their experiences.
In a recorded demonstration, a presenter engaged in a dynamic voice conversation with an NPC, showcasing the potential of AI-driven interactions.
This feature could significantly enrich the virtual environment, making it feel more alive and responsive, thereby attracting a broader audience to Meta’s metaverse platform.
Despite the ambitious updates, Meta faces the challenge of drawing users away from established metaverse platforms like Roblox and Fortnite.
While the introduction of customisable avatars and interactive NPCs might not single-handedly shift the tide, these enhancements could provide enough incentive for users to revisit and explore the offerings of Horizon Worlds.
The evolution of Meta’s avatars and the development of engaging environments are steps toward creating a more compelling virtual world where users can connect, create, and play.
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