Continuing its rapid experiments with AI apps, Meta has launched a new app called Waddle World, which is essentially like a Tamagotchi clone, but with AI. This may be a test, but it could very well be a precursor to the company’s Muse-powered Tamagotchi-like gadget.
The company launched Waddle World in the Philippines on iOS and Android. The app, spotted by social media consultant Matt Navarra, lets you choose and grow a virtual pet, feed it and play with it.
We’ve reached out to Meta for comment on wider availability and will update this article if we receive a response.
Meta’s description of the app states that it doesn’t want the app to be a habit builder. The company’s page also states that the app is not a chatbot and is marked as suitable for users over 18 years old.
“Waddle World is a cozy 16-bit world for your pixel pet to live in. Hatch a virtual pet, visit it whenever you want, and let it get to know you. No pressure, no tracks to protect, no scores to chase – just a warm little escape into the cracks of your day,” the app’s description reads.
“Not a chatbot. Not an assistant. Not a productivity tool. It’s a pet and a place. Stay for two minutes or twenty – it’ll be happy either way.”
The app also acts as a journal, allowing users to describe their day through voice or text. The animal listens to the user and writes the note in its own voice as a doodle input. The app also has mini-games you can play for a few minutes and can send you a weekly email based on what it’s learned about you.
Meta may want to avoid creating companion apps, given that companies like Character.AI and OpenAI have faced lawsuits alleging their products harmed teens.
So far, the social media giant has released AI-centric apps like Pocket, which lets you code games, and Vibes, which lets you quickly generate videos.
Besides virtual pets, some companies have also tried to create AI hardware pets.
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