Instagram is experimenting with a new feature called "Pals," a virtual pet sticker for Stories. Users can add a virtual pet to their Stories, which grows based on the number of likes the Story receives. The feature may also include interactive elements, allowing viewers to "play" with the digital pet.

Key details about the functionality remain unclear, such as whether the pet's growth will be visible to all users or personalized based on individual interactions. The concept aims to increase engagement, similar to the appeal of "Pokemon Go" and Snapchat's message "Streaks." While it may seem like engagement bait, it has the potential to be popular, especially among younger users. Instagram has not yet publicly announced the Pals sticker.