What Is Genmoji On iOS 18?

Create personalised emoji-like characters with Genmoji. Express yourself uniquely in messages and chats on iPhone, iPad, and Mac with Apple Intelligence.

What Is Genmoji On iOS 18?

Genmoji is a feature of Apple Intelligence that allows users to create original emoji-like characters to express themselves. By simply typing a description, users can create their Genmoji, with additional options available. Genmoji can be added inline to messages or shared as a sticker or reaction in a Tapback. Users can even create Genmoji of friends and family based on their photos.

Genmoji was announced during WWDC 2024.

Genmoji Of A T-rex On A Surfboard
Genmoji Of A T-rex On A Surfboard

How Does Genmoji Work?

Description Input

Users type a brief description, such as “happy cat with sunglasses” or “laughing robot,” into the Genmoji interface. Apple’s AI processes the text input to understand the specific details, such as mood, appearance, and objects involved.

Generation

Once the description is processed, the system generates an image based on the details provided. Users can then fine-tune their Genmoji using additional customisation options, such as colour, size, or facial expressions.

Sharing

After creating a Genmoji, users can share it in various ways. They can insert it directly into conversations within Messages to express themselves in a fun and unique way, or turn their Genmoji into stickers for a more expressive messaging experience. Additionally, Genmoji can be used as reactions within the Tapback feature, allowing for personalised responses to messages.

Creating Genmoji For Others

Users can also create Genmoji for friends or family members by uploading a photo, and the system will generate a character based on the likeness of the person.

Generating A Genmoji On iPhone
Generating A Genmoji On iPhone

Creating A Genmoji

To create a Genmoji, open the Messages app and select an existing thread or start a new message. Begin typing a description in the text field, such as “A pink flamingo with tap-dancing shoes.” A “Create new emoji” prompt will appear, and an ovular bubble will indicate that the system is generating your custom Genmoji. After a few seconds, you’ll see several iterations of your AI-generated emoji. Swipe through the options and tap “Insert” on the version you like the most to add it to your message.

Generating A Genmoji On iPhone

Where Does Genmoji Work?

iPhone & iPad

Genmoji is available on iPhones and iPads with the latest versions of iOS and iPadOS, accessible through the Apple Intelligence framework.

Messages App

Genmoji integrates directly into the Messages app, making it easy to insert or share in conversations.

FaceTIme & Social Media

Users can add their custom Genmoji to FaceTime calls or share them across social media platforms via the Share Sheet, making them versatile and adaptable across apps.