Roblox is preparing to roll out rentable cosmetics in 2026, giving players a new way to access avatar items for a limited time at a lower price.
The feature, officially referred to as Timed Options, was detailed in a January 16 post on the Roblox Developer Forum and is part of a wider set of marketplace changes planned for the platform this year. Under the system, players will be able to rent certain avatar items for three, seven, or 14 days.
Timed Options are designed to make avatar customization more flexible for players while giving creators additional ways to monetize their items. Rentals are expected to be priced lower than permanent purchases, allowing players to try cosmetics for short periods without committing to the full cost.
Timed Options are part of a broader 2026 roadmap for Roblox that focuses heavily on avatar expression and creator tools. The official Roblox Creator Roadmap lists several other updates slated for release this year, including new makeup options, animation packs, and dedicated avatar shops that will allow creators to showcase their items in customized storefronts.
A new phase for Roblox’s avatar marketplace
The rental system also marks a notable shift in how Roblox approaches its virtual economy. The platform previously experimented with item rentals through Gear, a system that was gradually removed between 2019 and 2021.
Timed Options represent a more structured return to the idea, with clearly defined rental windows and built-in support for creators.
Roblox has framed these changes as part of a long-term strategy to grow its creator economy, which was a major focus during discussions at the 2025 Roblox Developers Conference. Investor updates and newsroom posts have emphasized expanding monetization options beyond one-time purchases, with the goal of increasing engagement and earnings for creators.
Community reactions to the announcement have been mixed.
Some players see rentals as a more affordable way to keep their avatars fresh, especially for events or seasonal looks. Others have raised questions about which items will support Timed Options and whether rentals could eventually become more prominent than permanent purchases.
Roblox has not announced an exact release date for Timed Options, but the feature is currently scheduled for launch sometime February 2026, alongside the platform’s other planned avatar and marketplace updates.
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