You can now turn your Facebook profile photo into an animated picture: Here's how

Facebook has introduced new AI tools that turn profile photos and posts into animated content, offering users more creative ways to share online.

Facebook has rolled out a set of new artificial intelligence tools that allow users to change how their photos and posts appear on the platform. The company announced the updates on Tuesday, saying the features aim to give people more ways to present themselves through profile pictures, Stories, Memories and text posts.

Animated Profile Pictures

Here’s how you can use Meta AI to animate your Facebook photos and stories. (Meta)

By MD Ijaj Khan

Ijaj Khan is a technology journalist and Senior Content Producer at Hindustan Times, with over three years of experience covering the consumer technology industry. His work spans smartphones, laptops, wearables, gaming, appliances and AI - from hands-on reviews, comparison and buying guides to breaking news and in-depth features that help readers cut through the noise and make informed decisions. Before joining HT Tech, he worked with Jagran New Media, where he sharpened his instincts for fast-paced digital reporting. He holds a Post Graduate Diploma in English Journalism and Mass Communication from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Delhi. Whether he's testing the latest flagship smartphone, tracking a major AI announcement, or putting a gaming laptop through its paces, Ijaj approaches every story with the same goal - making technology feel relevant and easy to understand for everyday users, not just enthusiasts. When he's not in front of a screen for work, he's usually travelling to a new city, hunting for great food, or keeping tabs on what's next in tech before everyone else catches on.

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The update introduces animated profile pictures powered by Meta AI. Users can now turn a still image into a moving display photo. The system adds motion effects that make the person in the image appear to wave, form a heart sign with their hands or wear a digital party hat. Facebook advises users to upload a clear image of one person looking at the camera for better results. People can select a picture from their phone gallery or choose an existing photo from their Facebook account. The company has stated that it will expand the list of animation effects in the coming months.

Restyle Tool for Stories and Memories

Facebook has also added an AI-based “Restyle” feature to Stories and Memories. Stories allow users to share photos and videos that disappear after 24 hours, while Memories bring back posts shared on the same date in previous years. With Restyle, users can upload a photo or select a Memory and then transform its appearance. They can type a text prompt to guide the changes or pick from preset themes. These themes include options such as anime-style visuals, illustrated looks and other artistic formats. Users can also adjust lighting, mood and colours, or replace the background with scenes such as a beach or a city skyline.

Animated Backgrounds for Text Posts

Facebook currently reports about 2.1 billion daily active users worldwide. Despite its scale, the platform has faced challenges in attracting younger audiences in recent years. With these AI-driven tools, the company is attempting to refresh user engagement and offer new ways for people to interact and share content.