Envision conversing with an AI video avatar in real time—an intelligent assistant that not only communicates but also resembles and behaves like a person of your choice. This forward-looking idea is becoming a reality.

On Monday, April 21, Character.AI introduced AvatarFX, a state-of-the-art AI video creation tool crafted to convert 2D images into realistic, extended video. As stated in the company’s official blog entry, AvatarFX enables users to generate animated characters that can converse, sing, and convey emotions—all with a single click. While the tool is presently in a private beta phase, users can now submit requests for early access.

Character.AI is already recognized for its extensive collection of over 10 million AI characters with whom users can chat and engage in roleplay in real time. With AvatarFX, the platform is enhancing its offerings, allowing users to visually animate these characters. While live interaction with these video avatars isn’t yet possible, it’s clear how this could become a typical feature in the foreseeable future.

Would you like your AI assistant to appear as a charming human, a sci-fi robot, or even a mythical centaur? AvatarFX enables customization of your chatbot’s look in completely new ways.

Character.AI has started to demonstrate AvatarFX’s capabilities with a variety of example videos. These include a Studio Ghibli-inspired video podcast, a recreation of Al Pacino’s role in Scarface, and a talking portrait of Albert Einstein—showcases that are bound to elicit both excitement and apprehension among AI critics.

To tackle ethical issues, especially concerning deepfakes, Character.AI has put in place various safety protocols. All videos will feature a visible watermark, and the company has instituted a strict “one-strike policy” for individuals who breach its terms of service. These regulations forbid impersonation, harassment, unauthorized use of intellectual property, and the production of deepfakes.

For those enthusiastic about discovering the future of AI avatars, the waitlist for AvatarFX’s beta program is currently available on the Character.AI website.