Zoom has introduced an avatar feature that lets users swap their appearance for a virtual animal. The Avatars, which are available in Zoom Meetings and Zoom Webinars, will mimic a participant’s movement and facial expressions. David Ball, Product Marketing Manager at Zoom, said: “Our teams at Zoom are always looking for ways to help you connect with others. “Avatars are an easy and entertaining way to engage with attendees and create a bit of fun.
“They also provide a good middle ground for users who don't want to appear on camera, but still want to express body language and facial expressions”
Zoom said that the new feature can recognise the shape of a user’s face, as well as features such as their eyes, but does not use facial recognition. No data related to a user’s facial features is stored. Zoom also teased that it could expand the avatars beyond animals down the line.
How and When to Use Avatars
Avatars are available across Windows, macOS and iOS devices, providing the user is running at least version 5.10.0 of the Zoom client or app. The feature can be enabled by navigating to either the Virtual Background or Video Filter options in video settings while in a Zoom meeting. Avatars can be used in conjunction with Virtual Backgrounds and Immersive View.
