Meta Launches Tamagotchi-Like AI Pet App Waddle World, Only in the Philippines

The game first became available in late September, according to Apple App Store and Google Play listings cited by social media consultant Matt Navarra, who posted links to the listings on X. Waddle World is a 16-bit game that Meta describes as a "daily journal disguised as a pet."

As in other virtual pet games, users hatch an egg to get a pet, then play with it and feed it to keep it happy. The pet can chat with the user and create illustrated journal entries based on their conversations. Users can write or dictate a journal entry, which the game presents as a way to communicate with the pet. Each time they write in the diary, the pet writes back and draws a small doodle to accompany the entry. The responses are powered by Meta's AI. Navarra described the app as basically "Tamagotchi meets ChatGPT."

The app also includes mini-games that let users collect points to buy food and toys for the pet. In one mini-game, users stack grocery items on top of the pet's head. In another, they catch falling stars and dodge bombs. A third asks users to spell words using jumbled letters on the screen.

Engadget said it was not clear why availability is limited, but said Meta may be testing Waddle World in the Philippines before a wider release.

Meta already lets users design cute avatars and designate a personality for its Muse agent. At its Connect event in September, the company revealed the Muse Charm, an egg-shaped physical device designed to be an AI companion. Like a Tamagotchi, it contains the user's Muse avatar and is small enough to be a keychain, giving users constant access to Muse or giving Muse constant access to their environments and experiences. Meta is aiming to release the device in time for the holidays this December.