Inclusivity is a hot topic in the world of social media, with user representation proving a key factor of concern for the Internet’s favorite social networking platforms. Snapchat, for example, has boosted inclusivity by rolling out wheelchair animations for its Bitmoji avatars.

“Bitmoji’s mission has always been to create avatars that reflect and represent the diversity of our community. And while we recognize that we have more work to do, today we hope to become one step closer in reaching our greater goal of making inclusivity a fundamental part of our Bitmoji avatar platform,” explains the Snapchat team.

The use of these avatars — built to reflect user traits and now available with a wheelchair — was first made possible from February 25 following a test launch. In fact, users looking to customize their Bitmoji to reflect their physical appearance now have the option of adding a manual wheelchair. Simply type “wheelchair” into the search bar via the Bitmoji app or in Snapchat by selecting the stickers tab.

In the past, Snapchat has been criticized for its lack of accessibility options for users with disabilities, especially those with visual impairments. With these new avatars, the platform seems to want to make amends while also working hand in hand with the community: “Over the past year we’ve been in touch with members of our community around requests to see their Bitmoji represented in a wheelchair. So, to create this first round of designs, we gathered their feedback, and worked closely with our disability rights advisor — both collectively guiding us in their design, specifically around the manual wheelchair’s details: the arm guard, the foot rest, the fabric of the seat, and how the spokes are positioned,” Snapchat explains.

(SD-Agencies)