The avatar function of Zoom is currently in beta, but is open to all users who download the software at version 5.10.0 or higher on Windows, Mac or iPhone , there are still no indications on an upcoming availability on Android but it is more than likely that it will arrive by return of post. To be able to use it in a group video call it will be necessary for the administrator to enable it, after which it can be accessed from the upward arrow next to the camera icon at the bottom, Choose virtual background / Chose Virtual Background, therefore Background and effects / Background and effects and Avatars. For the moment there are various animals available such as rabbit, dog, cat, cow, fox and raccoon. It is also worth noting that the animal avatar can be used in conjunction with a virtual background.
What is the usefulness of this function? In addition to having fun in group video calls between friends or family, Zoom is also aimed, for example, at pediatricians or childcare workers who have to deal with children, to create a more relaxed atmosphere, but also for virtual school classrooms. of the little ones. But it's safe to bet that it won't be too long before a politician or senior executive suddenly turns into a farm animal during a delicate public gathering, kind of like the hilarious video of the cat filter captive lawyer during a hearing.