Intel introduced on Thursday its new Pocket Avatars application, the free over-the-top (OTT) chat client that uses the front-facing camera on a phone or tablet to capture the user's facial expressions, head movements and voice and then map this data onto a 3D character. The app which is now available for Android and iOS phones, allows these messages to be shared through the app, on social media, or via text message and email. In addition to sharing avatars, users can also send standard text within the app for a comprehensive chatting experience.
Developed by Intel Labs technologists, Pocket Avatar is available for free at the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store for users in the United States and Canada. According to Intel, with a standard smartphone camera, users are now able to create customized messages using 3D images of their favorite characters, including American Greetings Care Bears, Annoying Orange, Gumby and Pokey , LEGO characters, Mr. Bill and the San Diego Chicken. More than 40 avatars are offered at launch through the in-app library and new characters will be introduced regularly. Many avatars are free, while some require a nominal purchase – most are priced at 99 cents at time of launch, said Intel.
So, how does it work? To create an avatar message, the user selects an avatar from the library, points the camera at his/her face, and then begins talking. The avatar reflects the user's facial expressions in real time, whether it's raising an eyebrow, nodding or turning his/her head. Each instant message can be 15 seconds long, and individuals will have the ability to review the message before sending it off to the recipient.
Intel says that the proprietary facial gesture software used by the app is based on years of research by Intel Labs. It is also the result of collaboration between Intel experts in clients, servers, message delivery, Web programming, 3-D tracking, modeling, animation and video rendering, who came together to enable this unique experience.
“Over the coming weeks and months we plan to improve the app with new features and capabilities. These include a constant stream of new avatars and improved tracking technology with new facial expressions that operate in a broader range of lighting environments."
- Michael A. Bell, Corporate VP and GM New Devices Group, Intel Corporation, via Intel's blog post
