Plugin Updated Sep 29

Meta Box User Avatar

by Meta Box metabox.io v1.0.2 Unlimited sites

Meta Box User Avatar by Meta Box is a WordPress plugin that lets users upload and use their own profile pictures. Uploaded images replace Gravatar across your site, so members can set a face for their account without signing up for an outside service.

Version: 1.0.2
Released: Sep 28, 2026
Developer: Meta Box
Type: WordPress plugin
Requires: Meta Box
Licence: GPL
Included in: Every plan, or $4.79 a year on its own

What’s new in Meta Box User Avatar 1.0.2

Version 1.0.2 · Sep 28, 2026 Latest

FixedFix deprecated notice for MBUA\Avatar::get_avatar()

What it does

By default, WordPress pulls profile images from Gravatar. That means users who want a picture have to create an account somewhere else, and many never do. This plugin removes that step. It adds a Custom Profile Picture option to the user profile and edit user screens, and users can also upload, crop and manage their avatars from the front end of your site, so they never need to visit the WordPress admin area.

Once a picture is uploaded, it shows up wherever WordPress displays an avatar, including comments and author info sections. The plugin is built on the Meta Box framework and requires the Meta Box plugin. It bundles the Meta Box extensions it needs, so there is nothing extra to set up, and it works alongside other Meta Box extensions if you are already using them to manage user meta. It suits sites where members interact and recognize each other.

Best for

Community sites where members want personal profile pictures
Forums with active commenters and discussion threads
Membership sites already using the Meta Box framework

Features

Custom avatar upload

Users can upload their own profile pictures instead of relying on Gravatar, giving each account a personal image chosen by its owner.

Front-end avatar management

Users can upload, crop and manage their avatars from the front end of the site, without needing access to the WordPress admin area.

Profile screen option

A Custom Profile Picture field is added to the user profile and edit user screens, so admins and users can set avatars in familiar places.

Site-wide avatar replacement

Uploaded pictures automatically replace Gravatar images across the site, including in comments, author info and other user-related sections.

Upload preview

Users can preview their picture during the upload process, which makes it easier to get the image right before saving it.

Required extensions included

The Meta Box extensions the plugin depends on come bundled with it, so you do not need to add separate extension plugins.

Works with Meta Box extensions

Because it runs on the Meta Box framework, it fits in with other Meta Box extensions you use to expand user meta on your site.

Meta Box User Avatar older versions

1.0.1Apr 18, 20231 fix

Members and buyers of this product can download older versions.

Questions about Meta Box User Avatar

Do my users need a Gravatar account to have a profile picture?

No. Users upload an image directly to your site, and that picture is used instead of Gravatar. People who never set up Gravatar can still have a real profile picture on their account.

Can users change their avatar without logging into the admin dashboard?

Yes. Users can upload, crop and manage their avatars from the front end of your website. There is also a Custom Profile Picture option on the user profile and edit user screens in the admin area.

Where will the uploaded avatars appear?

Uploaded pictures replace Gravatar images across the site wherever avatars are shown, including comments, author info sections and other user-related areas, so a user's picture stays consistent from page to page.

Do I need Meta Box for this to work?

Yes, the plugin is built on the Meta Box framework and requires the Meta Box plugin. The specific Meta Box extensions it needs are bundled in, so you do not have to add those separately.

Is Meta Box User Avatar free?

The code of Meta Box User Avatar is licensed under the GPL, so anyone may use, change and share it. GPL Feast is a paid service: a plan or a single purchase gives you the download and automatic updates. The developer's own support, licence key and online services are not included.

Which version of Meta Box User Avatar is this?

Version 1.0.2, released Sep 28, 2026. New versions appear here when the developer publishes them, and members get them as automatic updates.

How do I update Meta Box User Avatar?

Install the free GPL Feast Updater on your site and connect it with your API key. It installs new versions of Meta Box User Avatar automatically and keeps a backup, so you can roll back.

What does Meta Box User Avatar need?

Meta Box User Avatar needs Meta Box installed and active.