Meta tests Waddle World in the Philippines and Style Sketch in Asia

Meta is ramping up its mobile AI experiments with two quietly launched applications that are being distributed in a limited manner in Southeast Asia. Waddle World, a conversational journal featuring a virtual pet, is listed as free and intended for adults in the Philippines. Style Sketch, focused on fashion, is reportedly available in Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand, with no announced timeline for other regions.

Limited Availability and Quiet Launch in Southeast Asia

Waddle World is listed as free and restricted to adults, with limited availability in the Philippines. The app was spotted by social media consultant Matt Navarra. Meta has also launched Style Sketch, an AI-powered fashion application. According to Matt Navarra, Style Sketch is only accessible in Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand, but these geographical restrictions have not been independently verified. It is unclear whether Meta plans to launch Waddle World or Style Sketch in the United States or other countries. Meta has been contacted for more information about these applications and their availability.

Waddle World: A Journal Disguised as a Talking Virtual Pet

Presented as a Tamagotchi-style game, Waddle World features virtual creatures that converse with the user and generate drawings to illustrate these exchanges. Official descriptions on the App Store and Play Store position the experience as "a daily journal disguised as a pet" in a 16-bit universe. They encourage speaking rather than typing and mention "cozy games" such as stacking groceries or word games. The app page promises "a listening companion" and "a cozy world that belongs to you," describing "a 16-bit world where your pixelated pet lives," inviting users to nurture their virtual companion, visit it at any time, and allow it to get to know them. It emphasizes the absence of pressure, no series to protect, and no scores to chase, in favor of "a little warm escape."

A Product Context Marked by Muse AI, Its Mascot, and Charm Gadgets

The launch of these 16-bit pets comes as Meta promotes a mascot and small gadgets called Charm for its Muse AI agent. Style Sketch adds to these initiatives, continuing Meta's experiments with AI in applications aimed at the general public.