Meta updates Facebook with animated profiles and restyle tools

Meta has started rolling out new AI-powered features on Facebook that let users add more personality to their profiles, posts, and Stories.

One of the biggest updates is animated profile pictures. Users now have the ability to transform their image into a short animation that takes only three seconds to create. The available effects include natural motion, confetti, party hat, wave, and heart. Meta states that they will introduce additional animations that represent different seasons and special events during the upcoming months. The photo needs to show one person who looks directly at the camera for optimal results.

Facebook is also introducing Restyle for Stories and Memories. Users gain the ability to modify their photos appearance by selecting from preset styles that include anime and illustrated or by entering their own custom descriptions. The system enables users to change various aspects which include mood and lighting and color and background selections that feature beaches or cityscapes.

Text posts are getting an upgrade, too. Users can now add still or animated backgrounds by tapping the rainbow “A” icon while composing a post. These features are rolling out gradually to users worldwide.