Overview
ISO/IEC 24216-1:2026 sets out the general requirements and guidelines for user interfaces utilizing avatars across diverse information technology systems, applications, and content. This international standard, developed by ISO and IEC, is designed for creators, designers, producers, exhibitors, and distributors who implement avatars in virtual, augmented, and mixed reality environments, as well as in the emerging fields of the metaverse, interverse, and cyber-physical systems.
The standard defines the term “avatar,” provides a systematic categorization of avatars based on their presentation and function, and addresses crucial aspects such as user accessibility, ethical considerations, and usability. By offering robust guidance on the design, management, and use of avatars, this document supports enhanced user experience, respects diversity, and promotes responsible virtual representation.
Key Topics
1. Avatar Definition and Categorization
- Avatars are defined as graphical objects representing users, not limited to human likenesses and excluding NPCs (non-player characters).
- Categorization is based on body tracking (full-body, upper-body, hands, etc.), finger and facial tracking, perspective (first-person, third-person), appearance (photo-real, anime-style, abstract), input devices, body ownership, and source origin.
2. Design Considerations
- Appearance design must allow for sufficient customization to match user preferences, such as skin, eye, and hair color.
- Non-verbal communication capabilities include expressive facial features and culturally diverse gestures.
- Sensory feedback options (e.g., tactile or other modalities) must be explained and made accessible to users.
3. Ethical and Usability Aspects
- Developers must confirm ethical appropriateness in appearance, gender representation, cultural sensitivity, and sexual or violent content.
- Customization features should be flexible to support users’ identities and needs, ensuring inclusivity.
- Usability requires clear, accessible information regarding avatar usage and functions.
4. Avatar Management and Personality
- Actions, limitations, and ranges of use for avatars must be clearly managed and communicated.
- Respect for personalities-real or fictional-represented by avatars is emphasized.
- Ownership intent and permissions regarding the distribution and use of avatars should be embedded in avatar data.
Applications
ISO/IEC 24216-1:2026 is applicable across all areas utilizing avatars in user interfaces, with significant impact in:
- Virtual, Augmented, and Mixed Reality: In VR/AR/MR environments, avatars serve as key agents for user interaction, presence, and communication.
- Metaverse and Interverse Platforms: Standardization ensures consistent, ethical, and accessible avatar experiences in expanding digital universes.
- Online Entertainment and Gaming: Enhanced customization and communication features support inclusive, interactive user experiences.
- Business and Enterprise Solutions: In remote collaboration, meeting, and training settings, avatars improve engagement, diversity, and user comfort.
- Cyber-Physical Systems: Avatars facilitate human-machine interaction and foster trust in advanced digital ecosystems.
Organizations adopting this standard can improve user satisfaction, reduce misuse risks, and ensure compliance with global best practices in information technology.
Related Standards
For further guidance on accessible user interfaces and digital inclusion, refer to:
- ISO/IEC 20071 Series: Information technology - User interface component accessibility
- Related standards on virtual and augmented reality, and human-computer interaction, available on www.iso.org.
Implementing ISO/IEC 24216-1:2026 helps ensure ethical, accessible, and inclusive avatar experiences in all digital contexts, supporting a more diverse and user-focused IT landscape.