Abstract: A computer-implemented method for animating an avatar using a data processing device comprises the steps: a) providing a graphics unit which is designed to animate 2-dimensional and/or 3-dimensional objects and which has an interface, via which control data can be transferred to the graphics unit in order to animate the two- and/or three-dimensional objects; b) loading and holding in readiness an avatar in a memory area that can be addressed by the graphics unit; c) providing a receiving unit for receiving control data for animating the avatar; d) continuous and sequential transferring of received control data to the graphics unit; e) animating the avatar by continuous re-calculation of an updated avatar on the basis of the current control data being transferred with subsequent rendering of the avatar in the graphics unit; f) continuous representation of the updated avatar on a display device.