Snapchat profiles are getting a full body makeover.
Bitmojis have been a central feature of Snapchat profiles since 2017, when they became the default image internally for Snapcodes, the QR codes displayed on profiles that link to your personal profile.
Now, they are becoming more prominent than ever. Starting Monday, Snapchat users will be able to include full-body 3D versions of their Bitmoji avatars in their profiles. Previously, the Bitmojis in the profiles were just heads and shoulders inside of those Snapcodes. With the new design, users can designate different poses, such as peace signs or 3/4 turns, and backgrounds such as colored wallpapers or city scenes. The newest tool for Bitmoji tweaking? Earrings.
Snap acquired Bitmoji maker Bitstrips in 2016. Since then, Snapchat has integrated the animated and customizable avatars throughout the app. That includes games, in which a lucky guy’s Bitmoji is their series vicissitude, and a cartoon series, which presents each person’s Bitmoji as the “fate” of television software. It’s still been an avenue for commerce: Snap has partnered with brands like Ralph Lauren to introduce capsule collections. Users can dress their Bitmoji in designer threads and even purchase the corresponding garments (outside of the app) to wear in authentic life.
However, the brightness of the profile is interesting, considering that Snapchat has played down the role of profiles in the application. That’s been for the subtly philosophical reason that Snap wants users to communicate their authentic self and in the moment, in office of the passive and polished profile.
Without requisition, things have begun to change. Everyday users (as opposed to creators) were able to start profiling publicly last year. On the profile of one lucky guy, there is now a call for influence to make a profile known and grow a following on Spotlight, Snap’s TikTok-like portal that features an endless stream of virulent content. A more dynamic profile could entice creators to return to using Spotlight by giving them a higher emanation platform to showcase their personalities (and perhaps, eventually, brand associations).
Pick your background and sassy pose, and make sure everyone can see you.
Credit: snap, inc.
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Leaving aside business motivations, the new profile it is cute. The unshakable body Bitmoji can be walking down a city street or making a move on the dance floor. The multiple angles of the poses bring the little avatars to life. And while Snap has had full-body Bitmojis (and outfits) for a while, it says its “pixar-quality 3D” allows for improved details and textures. Snap’s customization options are prolific, from skin color (my Bitmoji’s shade is a vigorous lavender) to body type and more.
The profile changes begin rolling out globally on Monday. If proportionately you may not get the new look right away, you can get to your profile by clicking on your Bitmoji in the upper left corner of your screen. Then scroll down to the “Bitmoji” section, where you can change your outfit, edit your Bitmoji, and even of course “Buy Bitmoji Merch.”
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