Avatars editor
Enabling granular face and body editing for a next-gen avatar style across mobile and VR — parametric customization, color systems, inclusive representation.
Context
Part of a product ecosystem with 1B+ avatars created — giving users a persistent digital identity across social apps and immersive VR. A next-generation avatar style was launching, and the editor needed to evolve from preset-picking to granular parametric customization.
Challenge
- Editor offered only discrete presets — no granular control over features
- Only 15% of users who started avatar creation finished it
- Diverse body types and facial features weren't well served
- Below market standards for customization depth and inclusivity
My role
Led the design of the parametric editing experience for a new avatar style — the UX that enables users to shape faces and bodies with precision, not just pick from a menu.
- Defined macro-to-micro interaction model (presets → adjustments → fine-tuning)
- Designed slider controls, shape pickers, 3D immersive preview
- Created color customization systems (skin tones, hair, lips with proper separation)
- Partnered with UXR on multiple research rounds — validating IA, controls, preferences
- Collaborated with art/3D teams on parametric ranges and representation standards
- Planned post-launch roadmap: age editing, face complexions, prosthetics, texture layering
Key decisions (validated through UXR)
- Identity-sensitive defaults — no gendered assumptions, inclusive ranges
- Progressive disclosure — users liked controls but were overwhelmed seeing all at once
- Sliders as primary input — preferred interaction confirmed through research
Impact
Enabled new avatar style launch across mobile and VR with full parametric editing.
Improved creation completion rates from 15% baseline.
Significantly expanded representation and inclusivity options.
As featured in
Interaction Design
UX Architecture
Inclusive Design
Research Partnership
3D/Spatial UI
Progressive Disclosure
Color Systems