TikTok Tests AI-Powered Profile Avatar Creation
Chinese social media giant TikTok is testing a new feature that allows users to create unique profile avatars based on their image. The new function uses AI-powered technology to generate stylised illustrated images of users based on uploaded profile pictures.
Currently in the early stages of testing, the function is only available to selected users in a limited number of regions, with no confirmed date for a wider public release.
A TikTok spokesperson said the company was committed to exploring new ways to enhance user experience and increase the value of its community, stating “we continue to create a safe place that entertains, inspires creativity and stimulates culture”.
The AI-generated avatars are unlikely to cause controversy in the same way previous AI-generated content has. Concerns have been raised in recent months about the spread of disinformation via the medium, although in TikTok’s case the impact of the AI is expected to be limited to profile images.
TikTok has drawn criticism in the past for its approach to user data privacy, but claims to be working to increase safety standards. The company reportedly hopes to leverage end-users’ interests to help develop better AI tools for the platform.
More information on the AI avatar function will be released as testing continues.