Bitmoji are personalized avatars created by Snapchat that users can customize to look like themselves. They can be used in Snapchat and other messaging apps to express emotions and reactions. As Snapchat frequently updates the Bitmoji design and options, some users have noticed that older Bitmoji versions seem to disappear after updates. This has led many to wonder – did Snapchat get rid of old Bitmoji?
In this article, we will examine the history of Bitmoji design changes, look at user reports of old Bitmoji disappearing, analyze Snapchat’s stance on retaining old versions, and provide some tips on how to keep using legacy Bitmoji if desired.
History of Bitmoji Redesigns
Bitmoji was created in 2014 by Bitstrips and acquired by Snapchat in 2016. Initially, users had limited customization options for their avatar’s facial features, hair, and clothing. In 2017, Snapchat gave Bitmoji a major 3D redesign, with more realistic and detailed facial options and outfits. This also added new gestures and poses.
Another Bitmoji overhaul came in 2019, which focused on enhancing style and customization choices. This update added hundreds of new hair and fashion options. In 2020, Snapchat continued improving graphics, bringing another visual refresh.
Most recently in 2022, Snapchat has been rolling out Bitmoji Kit – a new design system that allows mixing and matching of individual facial features, hairstyles, and clothing items. This modular approach aims to provide more flexibility.
Key Bitmoji Redesigns
- 2014: Bitmoji launched with basic customization
- 2017: Major 3D redesign with enhanced realism
- 2019: Expanded style and customization options
- 2020: Improved Bitmoji graphics
- 2022: Modular Bitmoji Kit mixing and matching
As Bitmoji has evolved over time, Snapchat has focused on improving realism, diversity, and flexibility of avatar customization.
Reports of Old Bitmoji Disappearing
With each Bitmoji redesign, some users have complained about their old customized avatars disappearing. For example, after the 2017 3D update, some couldn’t find their original 2D Bitmoji. Similar issues were noted after the release of Bitmoji Kit.
Many users have posted on social media and forums about their old Bitmoji vanishing after Bitmoji Kit. Often, they had an older Bitmoji look they preferred and were upset to see it gone. Here are some example complaints:
- “I can’t get my old bitmoji back after the new update. I hate the new stylized ones.”
- “Is there any way to get your old bitmoji back? I don’t like the new update.”
- “My old bitmoji disappeared and now I’m stuck with this new one I don’t like! Please bring back my old one!”
These reports seem to indicate Snapchat may remove older Bitmoji after significant design updates. However, Snapchat has not officially confirmed this is happening.
Key Complaints About Old Bitmoji Disappearing
- After 2017 3D update, some 2D Bitmoji disappeared
- With the introduction of Bitmoji Kit, some older looks were removed
- Many users complain on social media about losing their preferred old Bitmoji
- Snapchat has not addressed whether old versions are intentionally removed
Snapchat’s Stance on Retaining Old Bitmoji
Snapchat has not provided official guidance on whether older Bitmoji are removed from user accounts after major redesigns. However, there are a few clues on their stance:
- Their Bitmoji Kit FAQ recommends saving desired old outfits to Memories before updating
- Snapchat’s support page says “each Bitmoji is unique and tailored to you”
- Bitmoji Kit promotional posts highlight new customization options but don’t mention losing old looks
While not definitive, this suggests Snapchat intends users to keep their customized avatar. The Kit FAQ implies old outfits can be lost if not saved, but not entire old avatars.
Snapchat likely wants to avoid frustrating users who have carefully crafted their Bitmoji over years. Removing old versions could lead to backlash, so there may be technical issues involved rather than intentional removal.
Snapchat’s Unclear Position on Old Bitmoji
- No official statement on removing old Bitmoji after redesigns
- Kit FAQ suggests saving old outfits to Memories before updating
- Stance seems to be customized Bitmoji will remain available
- Possible old versions disappear due to technical errors vs intent
Keeping Your Legacy Bitmoji
If you want to keep an older customized Bitmoji, here are a few tips:
- Before major updates, save your avatar to Memories in multiple poses
- Frequently backup your Bitmoji via Settings > Download Your Data
- If your old Bitmoji disappears, contact Snapchat Support
- Turn off automatic Bitmoji updates in Settings to prevent unwanted changes
Hopefully, Snapchat will provide official clarification on this issue soon. Unless they confirm removing old Bitmoji, it’s likely a technical glitch if a customized avatar disappears completely.
Conclusion
While Snapchat has redesigned Bitmoji’s art style and customization options several times, there is no definitive evidence they intentionally remove users’ older customized avatars. Reports of old Bitmoji disappearing tend to surface around major updates, but Snapchat has not stated old versions are removed.
To keep your classic Bitmoji, proactively save it to Memories and back up your data. Turn off automatic Bitmoji updates if you’d like to retain an old style. Reach out to Snapchat support if your customized avatar disappears entirely after an update.
With Bitmoji Kit offering more modularity, hopefully users will be able to recreate their legacy looks while still enjoying visual improvements. But Snapchat could reduce confusion by being more transparent about their Bitmoji retention policies around redesigns.