WhatsApp is discontinuing its avatar feature on both Android and iOS platforms, ceasing support for avatar creation, editing, and usage in profiles. As updates roll out, users are gradually losing access to avatar-related functionalities in settings, chat screens, and the keyboard, though previously saved avatar stickers will still be accessible.
According to a report from Wabetainfo, this transition is occurring in phases, becoming more apparent in recent days after a quiet rollout over the past few months. Users can verify if their accounts have been impacted by checking the avatar section within WhatsApp settings. In several instances, the app now displays a message indicating that the avatar can no longer be modified and will soon be removed from the profile. For some users, the entire avatar section has already been eliminated from the settings.
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How the feature worked
WhatsApp initially introduced profile avatars to allow users to create a digital representation of themselves by selecting facial features, hairstyles, and outfits. Additionally, users could opt for different background colours and incorporate animations. Once established, the avatar would appear alongside the profile picture in the chat information screen, featuring a flip animation toggling between the photo and the avatar.
Over time, Meta made enhancements to the feature by improving its visual style and broadening customisation options. WhatsApp further introduced personalised avatar stickers for chats, aiming to enhance expressiveness and usability in conversations.
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What is being removed
WhatsApp is currently eliminating access to avatars from numerous parts of the app. Besides the settings and chat information screen, the app is also removing the avatar shortcut from the keyboard. As a result, users will no longer have the ability to create or send avatar stickers directly from the conversation interface. However, avatar stickers previously sent in chats will remain intact. They may still be found in the recent stickers section and, in some scenarios, in the favourites tab if saved earlier.
No date for full removal
WhatsApp has not openly disclosed the specific reason behind this decision or provided a timeline for the complete removal of the feature. Instead, the functionality will gradually vanish in the coming weeks. Once the rollout concludes, users will no longer have the option to create, modify, or manage avatars within the app.
This decision signifies the conclusion of a feature that had undergone numerous updates over the years, with WhatsApp consistently phasing out avatar tools from profiles, settings, and chats across both Android and iOS.
