What are Facebook Avatars and how do they work?

(Pocket-lint) – Facebook doesn’t have any issues with copying Snapchat and others – including the way it offers customisable avatars.

Snapchat bought Bitmoji in 2016 for 100 million and has since offered its users the ability to create and send virtual lookalike characters. Now, Facebook offers its users the same thing: Customizable avatars. The social network has rolled them out in the US after first launching them internationally. Here’s everything you need to know about Facebook Avatars.

What are Facebook Avatars?

• They’re like Bitmoji characters
• Create your own virtual lookalike

Facebook said it wanted to give users a better way to express themselves, so it’s introducing Facebook Avatars. Here’s how they’re described:

“Avatars enable you to share a range of emotions and expressions via a digital persona that’s uniquely representative of you, so we’re excited to bring this new form of self-expression to more people around the world. With so many emotions and expressions to Choose from, avatars let you react and engage more authentically with family and friends across the app. “

Where can you use Facebook Avatars?

• Available in Facebook app
• Also available in Messenger app

Facebook Avatars can be used in Facebook comments and stories, and eventually, text posts with backgrounds. They can also be used in Messenger conversations, and they can be displayed on your Facebook gaming profile.

How to make your Facebook Avatar

• Go to Facebook or Messenger comment composer
• Tap smiley button, then sticker tab, and “Create Your Avatar”

You can start making your own Facebook Avatar by heading to the comment composer in the Facebook app or Messenger app. From there, tap the smiley button, then go to the sticker tab, and choose “create your avatar”. It’s that easy!

You’ll notice a range of options, including for hairstyles, complexions, and outfits.

Want to know more?

Check out Facebook’s announcement post here.