Meta Tests Waddle World, an AI Pet App That Is Really a Journal, and Says It Is "Not a Chatbot"
Meta has released Waddle World, a 16-bit virtual pet app, on iOS and Android in the Philippines only, according to TechCrunch and Engadget. Users hatch and feed a pixel pet, and write or dictate journal entries that the pet answers with an AI-written note and doodle; the app can send a weekly email based on what it learned about the user. Meta's listing calls it "not a chatbot" and rates it for adults. Meta had not commented on wider availability.
Meta's new pet app is built around getting users to write about their day. Engadget reports that Meta describes Waddle World as a "daily journal disguised as a pet": users write or dictate an entry, and the pet writes back with an AI-generated note and a doodle. TechCrunch adds that the app can send a weekly email based on what it has learned about the user.
What has launched#
Meta has released Waddle World on iOS and Android in the Philippines, according to TechCrunch, which says the app was spotted by social media consultant Matt Navarra. Based on the store listings, the app first became available in late September, Engadget reports. Users hatch an egg, then feed and play with the resulting pixel pet, and the app includes short mini-games whose points buy food and toys.
The listing frames the product defensively. "Not a chatbot. Not an assistant. Not a productivity tool. It's a pet, and a place," the app's description reads, according to TechCrunch, which says the listing also promises "no streaks to protect" and flags the app as suitable for users over 18. TechCrunch suggests Meta may want to avoid building companion apps, given lawsuits against Character.AI and OpenAI alleging their products harmed teenagers.
The hardware connection#
Both outlets connect the app to Muse Charm, the egg-shaped companion device Meta previewed at Connect in September. Engadget reports that Meta is aiming to release Charm for the holidays in December. TechCrunch says Waddle World could be a test or a precursor to that device.
Limits#
- Neither report quotes Meta directly; TechCrunch said it had asked Meta about wider availability and had not heard back.
- Neither outlet says which Meta model powers the pet's replies, or how journal entries are stored or used.
- The December Charm target comes from Engadget; Meta's September announcement did not give a shipping date.