Meta unveils new FIFA World Cup features across Instagram, WhatsApp and Facebook

Meta has introduced new and interactive World Cup-focused features for fans across Instagram, Messenger, Facebook and Threads ahead of the FIFA tournament in North America.

The US-based tech giant is collaborating with national teams, creators, commentators, players and broadcasters to provide the World Cup related content for these features.

For safety and privacy protection, Meta will implement anti-scam measures, ticket search reminders, and anti-abuse tools to protect players and fans online.

Facebook

Facebook is going to be more interactive to boost high-energy excitement surrounding FIFA by introducing a Football Mode feature. You can activate it by double-tap the Facebook logo on the Feed for themed reactions.

Fans can virtually try on their favourite national team’s jersey through the Wear It feature. You can also share them as profile pictures, stories or posts. To avail of this feature, open Stories, select a photo, tap AI edit and choose Wear and pick your choice.

Exclusive tournament-themed stickers and football-inspired design elements will be available for fans.

Instagram

Enhanced search: Meta has introduced dedicated destination surfacing curated real-time Reels, Stories, and posts from official broadcasters, teams, and fans.

AI-powered effects: A new 'Goal!' voice effect in DMs that unlocks a surprise animation when sent to your friends.

Threads

Threads will feature Live Chats, allowing the real-time conversations among fans and these chats will be hosted by creators and athletes during and after games.

Former footballers Sergio Agüero and Ian Wright will each host three Live Chats during the tournament.

A dedicated community will host match-day talks, player content and debates. For interactions, the users can use football-themed stickers, custom emoji reactions, curated media highlights and game reminders.

WhatsApp

Meta has partnered with Adidas to upgrade its standard football emoji to the Adidas Trionda match ball for reactions and messages.

For video-calls, the tech company rolls out new football-themed calling effects, face and background filters.

A new football sticker pack will allow the fans to express their emotions more clearly. We offer a dedicated directory for scores, team updates, and countdowns, plus the ability for Channels to post directly to Status.

Messenger

At messenger, you can enjoy real-time match highlights in your group chat. This ‘Live Updates” feature will turn your thread into real-time celebrations.

You can add the extra excitement by activating a limited edition chat theme and exclusive tournament-themed animated stickers. To activate this, just long press on the background of any group chat.