Facebook launches Bitmoji-like avatars in the US

After launching them internationally last year, Facebook is now rolling out customisable avatars in the US. Much like Snapchat’s Bitmoji and Apple’s Memoji, these avatars are your virtual lookalikes (you can customise it to make it look exactly like you or get adventurous) that you can use to express yourself.

These avatars can be used in your comments, your Facebook stories and on Messenger and soon you will be able to make text posts with backgrounds, explained Facebook’s Fidji Simo. They can also be used as a profile picture on your Facebook gaming account.

“So much of our interactions these days are taking place online, which is why it’s more important than ever to be able to express yourself personally on Facebook,” Simo wrote.

“It’s important to us that you can personalize your avatar so it represents your unique, authentic self, which is why we’re also adding in a new range of customizations, too — such as new hairstyles, complexions, and outfits,” Simo added.

Facebook’s avatars debuted in Australia last June and they have finally come to the US. We expect Facebook to roll it out in other countries soon.

Facebook’s usage has surged over the Covid-19 lockdown prompting the company to announce features like Messenger Rooms (Facebook’s alternative to Zoom and Houseparty) and even expanding the number of participants on WhatsApp video calls from four to eight.

If you are in the US, you can make your avatar by going to the comment composer on Facebook or Messenger, tap on the smiley button. Then tap on the sticker tab. Choose “create your avatar” and get going.