How to create a custom emoji with Apple Intelligence’s Genmoji feature

From Apple latest iOS 18.1 software updates introduced a range of Apple Intelligence features, including writing tools and notification summaries. However, some features were missing from the lineup, such as Genmoji, which lets users create emojis based on written prompts.

Now, with iOS 18.2, iPadOS 18.2 and macOS Sequoia 15.2 public betas officially availablethe long-awaited AI-generated Bitmoji feature is finally here and some users can give it a try.

Here’s what you need to know about the Apple Intelligence feature that many people are raving about, whether you’re in Apple’s beta software program and want to take it for a test drive, or are just curious about what to expect when Genmoji launches for all users.

What is a Genmoji?

Genmoji initially debuted on WWDC 2024 back in June. This feature is built into the iPhone’s emoji keyboard and allows people to generate original emojis with prompts. For example: “A sloth wearing a suit and tie.” It can also generate emojis of people using photos. Genmojis can be used not only in Messages, but also in Stickers and Tapbacks. It is also possible to respond to a message with a Genmoji or with Apple’s message effects.

How to create a custom emoji with Apple Intelligence

To use Genmoji, first make sure that Apple Intelligence is enabled. Then launch the Messages app, start a new message (or go to an existing chat) and click the emoji keyboard in the bottom left corner. Then type the prompt into the search bar and choose “Create New Emoji” just below it.

After a few seconds, Apple Intelligence creates multiple versions of the AI-generated emoji based on that custom description. To save a favorite Genmoji, tap “Add” in the top right corner to permanently add that new emoji to the keyboard.

To save a Genmoji that someone else sent, long-press on it and select “Emoji Details,” which will bring up the prompt used to generate the Genmoji. There is also an option to download it.

When is Genmoji’s official launch?

Currently, Genmoji is only available to users running Apple’s iOS 18.2 public beta. Please note that there may be a waiting list, so users may have to wait a few days or even weeks before gaining access.

The feature is expected to officially launch in early December.

Which Apple devices support Genmoji?

• iPhone 15 Pro
• iPhone 15 Pro Max
• iPhone 16
• iPhone 16Plus
• iPhone 16 Pro
• iPhone 16 Max
• iPad mini with A17 Pro chip
• All iPads with an Apple silicon chip
• (macOS Sequoia support coming soon)

Is Apple Intelligence supported in my country?

The only regions where Apple Intelligence is not supported are China and the EU due to certain regulations.

As for language support, it is currently only available in US English. It will roll out localized English support for Australia in late 2024, as well as language support for users in Canada, New Zealand, South Africa and the United Kingdom. By 2025, Chinese, English (India), English (Singapore), French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish and Vietnamese will also become available.