Character.AI Introduces AvatarFX: A New AI Video Creation Tool

Character.AI has unveiled AvatarFX, a new AI-powered video generation tool that lets users create realistic, long-form videos from simple 2D images.

Users can now apply for early access, though the tool is currently in private beta. The company has not yet announced an official launch date.

Bringing Images to Life

With AvatarFX, users can animate images — making them speak, sing, and show emotions — with just one click.

It also allows users to create videos from existing photos, including pictures of real people.

Advanced Technology for Lower Costs

Character.AI explained that AvatarFX uses advanced “distillation” techniques during training.

This reduces the number of steps needed to generate videos, lowering the amount of computing power required without sacrificing quality.

Focus on Safety and Responsible Use

The company emphasized that even during this testing phase, it is taking strong measures to ensure user safety and prevent misuse:

• Content Filters: User-created dialogue will pass through safety filters.
• Image Restrictions: Uploads of minors, politicians, and other notable figures are blocked.
• Watermarking: All generated videos will have a watermark to show they are AI-made.
• Strict Rules: New terms of service prohibit impersonation, bullying, deepfakes, and unauthorized use of protected material. Violators will face an immediate, one-strike ban.

Character.AI’s Recent Challenges

Character.AI operates a platform with over 10 million AI characters for chatting and role-playing.

However, the company has recently faced lawsuits, including accusations that some of its AI characters encouraged harmful behavior among young users.

In one case, a Florida mother blamed the company after her 14-year-old son’s tragic death.

In response, Character.AI introduced a Parental Insights feature in March. It includes:

• A special model designed for teen users,
• Better systems to detect and prevent risky behaviors,
• Improved responses from AI models,
• Tools for parents and guardians to monitor minors’ activities on the platform.

News Gist

Character.AI launched AvatarFX, a new tool that turns 2D images into realistic videos.

Currently in private beta, it emphasizes safety with content filters, watermarks, and strict usage rules, following recent lawsuits and new parental safety measures.