Snapchat to Sunset Standalone Bitmoji App, Integrating Avatars Fully into Core Platform
Snapchat has announced it will retire its standalone Bitmoji app on June 30, 2026, effectively consolidating all Bitmoji functionality within the main Snapchat application. The move reflects the company’s strategy to streamline operations and concentrate resources on its core app and augmented reality (AR) initiatives.
Bitmoji’s Evolution and Integration
Snapchat acquired Bitstrips, the original creator of Bitmoji, in 2016. Since then, the customizable avatars have turn into a key element of user engagement within Snapchat, appearing in messaging, Stories, and other interactive features. Bitmoji stickers, fashion items, and keyboard extensions are now widely used within the app.
Why the Standalone App is Being Discontinued
According to Snap, the majority of Bitmoji usage already occurs within Snapchat, making a separate app redundant. “Starting on June 30, 2026, the Bitmoji app will no longer be available … We’ll be bringing more Bitmoji experiences into the Snapchat app, so make sure to download Snapchat to continue accessing Bitmoji stickers, fashion, and the keyboard,” Snap stated. Social Media Today reports.
Continued Access to Bitmoji Features
Users will still be able to share Bitmoji content through the Snapchat app. Access may also be available through the Snapchat keyboard extension on some devices or via iOS Messages integration. Snapchat Support confirms that sharing Bitmoji stickers will continue.
Impact on Existing Users
Existing Bitmoji accounts will remain linked to Snapchat profiles, ensuring users can preserve their avatars without interruption. Snapchat emphasizes that Bitmoji stickers and related features will continue to be fully supported within the main app. Global Dating Insights highlights the continuity of service.
Bitmoji’s Popularity and Recent Updates
Bitmoji remains a significant driver of engagement on Snapchat. To date, over 2.7 billion avatars have been created, with 320 million daily users interacting with them. Recent updates demonstrate the feature’s continued popularity: in November 2025, Snap reintroduced classic 2D Bitmoji styles in response to a petition with over 100,000 signatures. In February 2026, a new Lens allowed premium subscribers to generate realistic Bitmoji versions of themselves. October 2025 saw the launch of Bitmoji Plaza, a digital town center where users’ avatars can interact in shared spaces.