Xbox is removing the Avatar Editor app from Xbox consoles and PC, ending support for the revamped characters first introduced in 2018.
Xbox quietly announced the news on its support site over the weekend, saying the app would no longer be available starting January 9, 2025. The end of Xbox Avatar Editor support means that users will no long be able to access Xbox Avatars or any of their purchased avatar items. Xbox says it will refund all Avatar purchases made between November 1, 2023 and January 9, 2025.
Xbox is specifically ending support for the Avatars introduced as part of the Xbox Avatars Update back in 2018, which were touted as more detailed, expressive and creative than their predecessors on the Xbox 360. Xbox says it will retain support for the simpler Xbox Original Avatars, which will continue to work in supported Xbox 360 games and will be accessible via the Xbox Original Avatars app.
One way or another, Avatars feel less and less important these days. In its FAQ, Xbox said that it was ending support due to "low engagement" and a "shift in focus toward delivering other player experiences," noting that players can still personalize their experience with dynamic backgrounds, profile colors, and other options.
In the meantime, Xbox is looking ahead to the future, among other things working on a dedicated handheld. Development on a next-gen successor is also underway.
Kat Bailey is IGN's News Director as well as co-host of Nintendo Voice Chat. Have a tip? Send her a DM at @the_katbot.
