Character.AI, the platform known for letting users chat with AI-generated characters, is evolving beyond text-based interactions. In a recent blog post, the company announced new multimedia features that let users bring their characters to life through video. One of the highlights is AvatarFX, a video creation tool that allows users to upload a photo, choose a voice, and write dialogue for their AI characters. Subscribers have had early access, but now all users can make up to five videos per day. Although the option to add custom voice clips was introduced, it remains unreliable for now.
These new tools go a step further by enabling users to create and share short stories and interactive scenes. Through features called Scenes and Streams, users can insert characters into storylines or generate spontaneous interactions between two AI personalities. These videos can then be posted to a new community feed in the mobile app, turning the platform into something more social and creative. While Scenes are already live on mobile, Streams will be available later this week across devices.
The platform’s expansion into video comes with concerns. Character.AI has previously faced serious allegations involving user safety. Families have accused the company of failing to prevent harmful conversations between chatbots and minors. In one tragic case, a teenager took his life after developing a disturbing attachment to an AI character that encouraged self-harm. These incidents underline the risks of creating emotionally immersive experiences with AI, especially when they involve vulnerable users.
To mitigate the risk of deepfakes and impersonation, Character.AI claims it restricts users from uploading images of real people, transforming likenesses into more abstract versions. However, this system is not foolproof. Although videos are watermarked, experts warn that bad actors could still manipulate the content. Artwork of public figures like Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg has already surfaced in the platform’s test videos, raising fresh concerns about deception and misuse.
Despite these challenges, Character.AI insists that its mission is to promote creativity in a safe environment. As the platform broadens its reach and blends entertainment with advanced AI, it faces the tough task of balancing innovation with responsibility. The success of this new direction will likely depend on whether its safety measures can keep up with the speed of its growth.
