What is "bitstrips"

Bitstrips is a web and mobile application that allows users to create a cartoon of themselves and their friends. It was originally created in 2007 by Toronto-based Jacob "Ba" Blackstock.

Users create animated avatars of themselves by adjusting multiple physical characteristics and accessories of a virtual figurine. They then proceed to position their avatar in one of over 10,000 different scenarios. Bitstrips launched its Facebook application in December 2012, and its iPhone and Android applications in September 2013. Horizon Ventures and Li Ka-shing then invested in the company in November 2013.

The application has been downloaded more than 11 million times. Bitstrips is based in Toronto, Canada and has 10 employees.

In 2016, Bitstrips was acquired by Snapchat for $100 million.