Why Can’t I Make a Facebook Avatar? Some Users Are Experiencing Issues

Facebook recently launched their own avatars in the U.S., and similar to Snapchat’s popular Bitmoji, this new feature allows users create a digital lookalike of themselves. Avatars are completely customizable, from hair texture and skin complexion, to eye shape and fun accessories. It’s no wonder Facebook users are obsessed with it.

Bitmoji has over 3.1 million downloads from the Google Play store alone, but with Facebook’s 2.50 billion monthly active users, many are speculating Avatars to rise in popularity over the next few years.

“So much of our interactions these days are taking place online, which is why it’s more important than ever to be able to express yourself personally on Facebook,” Fidji Simo, head of the Facebook App wrote in a post. “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.”

Facebook users can feature their Avatars in stickers which can be shared in Facebook Stories and comments. The Avatars have a wide range of facial expressions and reactions, making it easy for users to communicate with each other without using words.

“There are so many different ways you can use your avatar including in comments, Stories, Messenger — and soon text posts with backgrounds, too,” Fidji continued in the post. “There are so many different ways you can use your avatar including in comments, Stories, Messenger—and soon text posts with backgrounds, too. With so many emotions and expressions to choose from, avatars let you to react and engage more authentically with family and friends across the app.”

“It’s important to us that you can personalize your avatar so it represents your unique, authentic self, which is why we’re also adding in a new range of customizations, too — such as new hairstyles, complexions, and outfits.”

Avatars have been available to Facebook users across Europe since April, and in Australia since June of 2019. But they will all be receiving new updates on hairstyles, complexions, and outfits.