・Since this content is intended to provide general information, it includes initiatives in which we are not involved.
・Photos and images used in the article are images. It may differ from the content provided by the actual product or service.
・The content of this blog is based on the information at the time of publication. Therefore, regarding the content of the product, images and operating procedures may differ from the current version due to version upgrades, etc.
*Zoom and services that include the name Zoom are services provided by Zoom Video Communications, Inc.
From July 15, 2022, Zoom will have a 40-minute limit even for meetings with two participants if you have a free subscription. (Previously, it was only for meetings with 3 or more people.)
Companies and organizations using Zoom for business should consider switching to a paid license at this opportunity.
What is Zoom’s avatar function?
An avatar is a character that represents you in a virtual space.
Zoom was equipped with functions for arranging the appearance, such as “studio effects” where you can enjoy point makeup, and “video filters” where you can play with frames and accessories, but these are just adding effects to your own camera images. So, my face remained my own.
However, with the avatar function released this time, you can participate in Zoom without showing your face.
Even if the camera is off, it is possible to tell the reaction while hiding the face because avatars are linked to facial expressions and facial movements.
There are 11 kinds of avatars prepared in advance, so you can easily transform yourself into a different one simply by choosing a character.
How to use avatar
Now let’s take a look at the terms and conditions for using avatars.
Avatar prerequisites
Only the following devices and app versions are compatible with the Zoom avatar function.
- Zoom desktop client for PC 5.10.0 or later
- iPhone, iPad, Android
Plans that can use avatars
Currently released avatar features are available on all plans.
There is no difference in the types of avatars you can choose, so please try it even if you are on the free plan.
Avatar type
There are 11 different animals to choose from, including cats, dogs, foxes, and pandas.
There are two types of each, a T-shirt and a hoodie, for a total of 22 types including different versions of clothing.
All the characters are adorable, and the visuals are soothing, and there is no doubt that it will create a peaceful atmosphere.
It’s fun to try and find characters that look like you.
What you can do with your avatar
Since it tracks the image of the camera, it can move not only the direction of the face and the tilt of the neck, but also the opening of the mouth, the movement of the eyebrows, and other small parts smoothly.
However, the avatar 3D model only supports the upper body and front.
The facial expressions move a lot, but the body is almost fixed.
Even if you stand up in front of the camera, your avatar will not be able to stand up or turn around.
If you move a lot and get out of the camera’s recognition, you will disappear.
It is intended to be used in a sitting position, so please note that it cannot be used when movement is involved.
How to set your avatar
Avatars can’t be used in a browser, so if you want to use avatars in meetings, install the app.
Here‘s how to set your avatar on the PC desktop app.
How to set up before the meeting starts
- Launch the Zoom desktop app and sign in with your Zoom account.
- Open Zoom webinar window smaller, other options will move to [ Details ]. There are also new Settings.
- Click Backgrounds and Effects.
- Click “Avatar”.
- Select the avatar you want to set.
- Check the appearance on the preview screen.
How to set during a meeting
- Join the meeting from the Zoom desktop app.
- Click the arrow next to the Video icon in the meeting controls.
- Click Select Video Filter.
- Click “Avatar” and select the avatar you want to use.
Items to check when settings cannot be made
If you can’t set your avatar, your device may not support it, or the app version may be outdated.
First, check if the version of the device app meets the prerequisites.
If there are no issues, the feature may have been disabled in the Zoom web portal settings.
whether the device is compatible
Avatars are only compatible with PC apps (Windows/Mac), iOS mobile apps, and Androids that meet system requirements.
Please note that web browsers are not supported at this time.
Check app version
Avatars can be used on the desktop client for PC from version 5.10.0 onwards.
If you don’t see the avatar menu on the background and filter settings screen, try updating your app to the latest version.
Zoom desktop client update instructions
- Launch the Zoom desktop client and sign in.
- Click your icon in the top right.
- Click Check for Updates.
- If there is an update, the contents will be displayed. Confirm and click “Update” to update the app.
Activate the feature in the Zoom web portal
If the avatar menu is not displayed in “Backgrounds and effects” even if the app version is the latest version, check the settings of the Zoom web portal.
- Sign in to the Zoom web portal (https://zoom.us/).
- Click Settings.
- Click In Meeting (Details).
- Toggle on “Avatar” to activate it.
Limitations and precautions when using Zoom avatars
Let’s also check the restrictions and precautions when using Zoom avatars.
You can’t use your own characters
The only avatars that can be used with Zoom are pre-prepared animal characters.
It is currently not possible to set your own created character.
Cannot be used simultaneously with video filters
Video filters add effects such as frames and parts to camera images, but cannot be used simultaneously with avatars.
Video filters are not selectable during avatar settings.
If you want to use the video filter, please set your avatar to “None” first.
Real background cannot be used while setting avatar
Since avatars cannot be combined with real backgrounds, it is recommended to use them together with virtual backgrounds.
Even if you set the background to “None” while using an avatar, the background will be completely black and you will not be able to see the actual background image.
When you want to show something in the room, you need to unlock the avatar.
Article Summary
I introduced the avatar function newly added to Zoom.
- With Zoom, you can participate as an avatar without showing your face
- Characters are animals only
- Free plan can also be used
- Supported devices are Zoom desktop client and iOS mobile app
- Can be used with virtual backgrounds. Simultaneous use with video filter is not possible
A convenient avatar for when you want to change your mood or for an online drinking party.
With the addition of this function, it can be used not only in business, but also in educational settings and events.
Currently, it has just been launched, so expectations for future updates and the addition of avatars will increase.