Facebook Meta is introducing 3D avatars to Instagram stories and direct messages for the first time. Facebook and Messenger get the updated version of avatars.
The new avatars will have new facial shapes assistive devices like cochlear implants, hearing aids, and wheelchairs.
It allows the users in the US, Canada, and Mexico to appear as virtual selves in stickers, feed posts, Facebook profile pictures, and more.
3D Avatars Available to Instagram Stories & DMs
Meta has also teamed up with NFL to bring Super Bowl LVI shirts for avatars. Now, users can outfit their avatars with limited-time shirts of Cincinnati Bengals or Los Angeles Rams.
The announcement of a new avatar was made by General Manager Aigerim Shorman on the official blog of Meta.
In a blog post, the Manager said,
“Since revealing our long-term vision of the metaverse at Connect 2021, we’ve continued building out this next evolution of social technology, building towards a future where you can sit in the same room as loved ones who are actually thousands of miles away or work naturally with a talented team that spans the globe.”
The updated avatars on Facebook and Messenger have been rolled out. For the first time, the 3D avatars are available on Instagram as well.
Currently, people can make two different avatars, one for Instagram, one for Facebook and Messenger, and a third for VR.
The users who are registered with Accounts Centre have the option to sync the avatars on different platforms. Facebook users who created avatars in the past can see it converted to 3D avatars.
At present, avatars are available in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. There are no words on availability in other regions.
Meta has updated the look of avatars with subtle tweaks to the face shapes and skin shades. The company is planning to bring more customization options to Avatar editor in 2022.
