WhatsApp is rolling out a new AI-powered feature for iOS users, enabling them to generate custom profile pictures and group icons using text prompts. After debuting on Android, the update is now arriving via the TestFlight beta programme in iOS version 25.16.10.70, with a wider release expected soon.

Create Profile Photos Without Uploading Real Images

This new tool lets users create unique images by simply describing what they want to see. Instead of uploading a personal photo, users type a prompt—such as “a cartoon dog in space” or “vintage car by the beach”—and Meta’s AI generates an image based on that description.

Read More: Trump calls to probe Kamala Harris celebrity endorsements

For iOS users, the feature is accessible by navigating to Settings and tapping on the profile photo option. There, users will now see an option to “Create AI image.” Similarly, group admins can go to the group info screen and select the group icon section to generate an AI-powered icon for their chat.

Unlike traditional methods that rely on uploading or snapping a photo, this AI feature offers an entirely text-based method to design avatars, artistic illustrations, or themed visuals—making it ideal for users who lack suitable pictures or want something more creative.

Powered by Meta AI for High-Quality Results

The feature is built on Meta AI, ensuring that the generated images maintain a high standard of quality and professionalism. This allows users to receive well-rendered images that match their textual descriptions closely. It also opens up countless possibilities for visual creativity and personalization.

From fantasy-inspired avatars to illustrations that reflect moods, hobbies, or group themes, the AI tool helps users craft visuals that better express their identity or purpose in a fun, secure way.

Boost for Privacy and Creative Freedom

This development is seen as part of WhatsApp’s broader push to offer privacy-conscious features. With growing reluctance among users to share real photographs due to privacy concerns, the AI image tool provides a secure and expressive alternative.

Many users may not feel comfortable uploading personal images or may not have a recent or suitable photo on hand. With the new AI-powered generation system, they can create meaningful visuals without sharing any personal media—ideal for privacy-focused users.

For group chats, the feature also offers a practical benefit. Group topics often revolve around specific interests like gaming, technology, travel, or fandoms, and finding a suitable image can be difficult. The AI tool allows for the creation of context-specific group icons that reflect the group’s theme, making chats more visually engaging.

Read More: Tornadoes kill dozens of people in the US (VIDEOS)

Initially introduced to a limited number of iOS beta testers, the feature has already started appearing for some users on the stable iOS version, suggesting a phased rollout is underway. WhatsApp aims to ensure consistency across platforms, with Android users already having access to the tool. As WhatsApp continues to evolve from a messaging platform into a broader social utility, features like AI-generated imagery signal a clear move toward personalisation, privacy, and innovation.