From Messaging Pipeline, I found that ICQ, together with Oddcast, had announced some new animated avatars. Those are the little icons we use to represent ourselves. So, this was launched to make the IM experience more personal, engaging and customizable.

There are 13 human characters, both genders, plus 10 animal/creature ones. But, don’t be fooled by the small number. They are CUSTOMIZABLE. Yes. That means you can change the hair, eyes, skin colour, face shape, age, clothing, accessories, etc. Imaging the limitless (sort of) permutations. You can even change your avatar to match your outfit daily.

What about the creatures, you say. Well, they include some holiday ones, aliens, dragons and more. Just as customizable.

In an introductory offer, ICQ users will be able to customize their animated avatars in the new ICQ Devil Factory, and display them during instant messaging sessions, at no charge. After the introductory period there will be a charge, yet to be determined.

Free for now. Not forever. Cool though.

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This entry was posted on Thursday, June 30th, 2005 at 11:15 pm and is filed under ICQ, Instant Messenger News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.