You can add custom emojis to iPhone using Apple’s built-in Genmoji feature, which lets you create unique emojis from text descriptions or photos without needing third-party apps. This is the direct, integrated method for adding custom emojis to iPhone, powered by Apple Intelligence and available directly from the emoji keyboard.
How to add custom emojis to iPhone with Genmoji
Genmoji replaces the need for third-party keyboard apps by generating custom emojis on demand. You describe what you want, and the feature creates an original emoji that you can use in messages, as stickers, or as Tapback reactions. This approach keeps your experience within Apple’s ecosystem and avoids the security and compatibility issues that sometimes come with emojis and custom keyboards from outside sources.
You can create custom emojis using third-party apps like Emoji Me Face Maker, Bitmoji, or Gboard as an alternative method. To use a third-party custom emoji keyboard, you must first install it from the App Store, then enable it in Settings > General > Keyboard > Keyboards > Add New Keyboard. After enabling a third-party keyboard, you switch to it by tapping the globe icon on the keyboard.
What you need to use Genmoji
Genmoji requires an iPhone model that supports Apple Intelligence, such as the iPhone 15 Pro or later. You also need to enable Apple Intelligence in your device’s settings. Without these prerequisites, the Genmoji icon will not appear on your emoji keyboard.
Create a Genmoji from a description
- Open any app where you can type text, such as Messages.
- Tap the text field to bring up the keyboard, then tap the emoji icon to switch to the emoji keyboard.
- Look for the Genmoji icon (it resembles a smiling face with a sparkle) and tap it.
- Type a description of the emoji you want, for example “golden retriever wearing a party hat.”
- Genmoji generates several options based on your description. Tap the one you like to insert it into your message.
Create a Genmoji from a photo
You can also create a Genmoji based on a person from your photo library. After tapping the Genmoji icon, choose the option to select a photo. Pick a picture of a friend or family member, and Genmoji will generate an emoji that resembles that person. This is ideal for creating custom emojis of people you frequently message.
Refine and combine Genmoji
After creating a Genmoji, you can refine it by describing changes, such as “add sunglasses” or “make it smile.” You can also mix and match up to seven elements, including concepts, existing emoji or Genmoji, a description, or a person from your photo library. This lets you combine features from multiple sources to perfect the design.
How to use your custom Genmoji
Once created, Genmoji are saved with your stickers. You can send them in messages by tapping the sticker icon in the app drawer, use them as stickers on photos or messages, or set them as Tapback reactions to quickly respond to a message with your custom creation. They remain available in your sticker collection for repeated use.
Genmoji vs. Memoji vs. stickers
Genmoji are custom emojis generated from descriptions or photos, while Memoji are personalized animated avatars or static stickers based on your own appearance. Stickers created from images in your photo library are distinct from both, they are cutouts from photos rather than generated emojis. Each feature serves a different purpose: Genmoji for on-demand custom emojis, Memoji for self-representation, and photo stickers for real-world images.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Genmoji available on all iPhone models?
No, Genmoji requires a device that supports Apple Intelligence, specifically the iPhone 15 Pro and later models. Older iPhones cannot use this feature.
Can I edit a Genmoji after I send it?
No, once a Genmoji is sent as an image, it cannot be edited. You must create a new version if you want to make changes.
Can I use Genmoji in third-party apps like WhatsApp or Instagram?
Genmoji can be used in any app that supports standard emoji or sticker input, such as WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Instagram. Insert the Genmoji from the sticker drawer or emoji keyboard, and it will appear as an image in those apps.
Do I need to set up Bitmoji keyboard on Google phone to get custom emojis on iPhone?
On iPhone, Genmoji is the built-in solution and does not require any external keyboard setup.
How many Genmoji can I save?
There is no stated limit. Genmoji you create are saved in your sticker collection and remain available until you delete them.
Does adding custom emojis to my iPhone affect its performance?
No, as long as you use reputable apps or trusted sources, there should be no adverse effects.
