TikTok introduces customisable avatars, we wonder where they got that idea

TikTok will now allow users to create and customise animated avatars to add to their video shorts. The new feature, called TikTok Avatars, should be familiar to Snapchat and Apple users and their Bitmojis and Memojis, respectively.

Create yourself in TikTokverse

Last year’s most popular app will have ready-made avatar templates that can be adjusted to look more like you. And, if you have time on your hands or want to procrastinate, you can create a completely unique avatar.

“Choose from an array of hairstyles, accessories, piercings and makeup to create a TikTok Avatar that reflects your personal look and style,” reads TikTok’s blog post.

Once satisfied, creators can add their avatars to videos with voice effects or have them mimic facial expressions and gestures.

An avatar of self-expression

The social media app said that the new avatar feature would allow users to showcase their creativity and give them a platform for self-expression. The avatar feature could also be useful for users who would like to engage with their audience but do not want to show their real faces online. This will help keep things semi-anonymous, you know, for security reasons. If that’s the case, it’s probably better they pick someone else to virtually replicate.

Read More: TikTok is testing a ‘clear mode’ that removes clutter from your feed

The new avatar feature is very similar to the Bitmoji feature of Snapchat, which was first introduced in 2016. Meta also has avatars across their platforms, so it was only a matter of time before TikTok jumped on the bandwagon.

The feature is set to roll out globally in the coming days, weeks and months. Keep your app updated if you don’t want to miss out.