Particle.news
Download on the App Store

WhatsApp Axes Avatars in Gradual Rollout on Android and iOS

The phased shutdown signals a shift toward core features plus paid personalization tests.

Overview

  • WhatsApp is disabling Avatar creation and editing in a gradual rollout on Android and iOS, according to Monday reporting and updated help pages.
  • Affected accounts lose the Avatar section in settings and can no longer use an avatar for a profile photo or make new avatar stickers.
  • Stickers that people already generated with their avatars still show up in chats and remain usable.
  • WhatsApp’s help text says deleting an existing avatar is permanent and you will not be able to make a new one afterward.
  • There is no end date, with outlets expecting the change to ship in upcoming app updates, so users who want keepsakes should save stickers or take screenshots now.