With every iOS update, Apple introduces new features that enhance user experience — and one fan favorite is the addition of new emojis. Emojis are more than just fun images; they’ve become essential tools of expression for users around the globe. As digital language evolves, Apple ensures its emoji library keeps up with how people communicate in real-time.
TL;DR
The latest iOS update brings a new set of emojis, including additions that celebrate inclusivity, emotional nuance, and daily life. There are fresh smiley faces, new animals, more food options, and symbols for greater personal expression. Users can access them right from the emoji keyboard on their iPhones. Here’s a breakdown of what’s new and how to use them effectively in your chats and social posts.
What’s New in the iOS Emoji Update
Each emoji update reflects broad cultural and societal changes. Apple collaborates with the Unicode Consortium to roll out emojis that are diverse, representative, and fun. The most recent iOS release includes over 30 new emojis, categorized into several major themes:
- New Smileys: Enhanced emotional nuances, including a shaking face, a light blue heart, and a pushing hand.
- Inclusive Characters: Enhanced gender-neutral options and expanded skin tone choices.
- Animals and Nature: Icons like the moose, donkey, jellyfish, and goose make their emoji debut.
- Food & Drink: New additions like a pea pod and a ginger root enrich food offerings.
- Symbols & Objects: A folding hand fan, Wi-Fi symbol, and flute add to expressive and practical communication.
Smiley Faces & Emotion
One of the most noticeable categories that received attention is smiley faces. The new shaking face emoji is particularly adaptable—it can represent shock, confusion, excitement, or even a literal shake. The light blue, pink, and gray hearts fill in long-requested color gaps, allowing users to better match their aesthetic or mood.
Inclusivity and Representation
Apple continues its focus on diversity with the addition of more gender-neutral emoji options and new family combinations with varied skin tones. These updates aim to allow users of all backgrounds to find themselves reflected in their digital conversations.
Creative and Quirky Characters
The newly released animal icons — like the jellyfish and the goose — bring both realism and whimsy to your emoji palette. These additions not only serve as literal representations but also take on metaphorical meanings in memes and internet culture.
How to Find and Use the New Emojis
Accessing these new characters is simple and familiar. Users need to ensure they’ve updated to the latest iOS version. Once installed, here’s how to use the new emojis:
- Open any messaging or text input app on your iPhone, like Messages or Notes.
- Tap on the emoji icon on the keyboard, usually located at the bottom left.
- Scroll through the emoji categories or use the search bar to find specific new entries.
- Tap on the emoji you want to use, and it will be inserted into your text.
The emoji keyboard is also customizable. Users can tap and hold on many emojis to reveal additional variations, including different skin tones and gender options.
When and Where to Use New Emojis
Emojis are great in text messages, social media posts, captions, and even professional communication where tone and friendliness matter. The new emojis allow for richer emotion and context:
- Use the light blue heart to evoke calmness or serenity.
- Send a folding fan emoji during travel discussions or fashion conversations.
- Opt for the moose when talking about nature, wildlife, or Canadian culture.
Emojis also bridge language gaps and make conversations more universally understood. The broadened icon set allows for increased self-expression, especially in visual-first platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
Highlights from Emojipedia’s Emoji Forecast
Looking deeper into where these characters originate, Emojipedia plays a pivotal role in previewing emoji proposals before they make it onto our phones. Some highly anticipated candidates in the Unicode draft list include emojis such as the lime, phoenix, and a broken chain link — signaling that expressive diversity won’t slow down any time soon.
Emoji Etiquette: Dos and Don’ts
While emojis are entertaining, their use comes with some unwritten rules. Here are a few dos and don’ts when using the new emojis:
- Do use diverse emojis to reflect your intention more clearly.
- Do explore how different cultures interpret emojis—what’s funny in one region might be offensive elsewhere.
- Don’t overuse emojis in formal business communications.
- Don’t substitute entire paragraphs with emojis unless it’s clear what you’re conveying.
How Developers and Brands Are Using the New Emojis
It’s not just individual users who benefit from new emojis. Brands and app developers are also leveraging these icons to create more personalized marketing experiences. Emojis appear in push notifications, newsletters, product descriptions, and more.
For brands trying to reach Gen Z, emojis are particularly potent. A jellyfish emoji in a campaign about environmental consciousness or a moose to highlight outdoor gear can subtly enhance brand relatability and appeal.
FAQ
How do I get the new emojis on my iPhone?
Update to the latest iOS version by going to Settings > General > Software Update. Once updated, the new emojis will be available on your emoji keyboard.
Why can’t I see some of the new emojis?
Either you haven’t updated your iPhone to the newest iOS version or the app you’re using doesn’t yet support the latest emoji set. Updating both iOS and your apps should resolve the issue.
Can I use the new emojis in third-party apps like WhatsApp or Instagram?
Yes, as long as those apps support the newest Unicode version and you’re using an updated iOS, you can use the new emojis in almost any app with a text input field.
Do emojis look the same on all devices?
No, emoji designs can vary between platforms such as Apple, Android, and Windows. While the core meaning remains the same, visual differences may appear in shading, shape, or design details.
Are there plans for even more emojis in the future?
Absolutely. Emoji evolution is ongoing. Every year, Unicode reviews proposals and adds new emojis based on global user demand and cultural relevance.
Final Thoughts
The latest batch of iOS emojis demonstrates Apple’s dedication to making communication more inclusive, fun, and expressive. Whether you’re sending a light blue heart to a friend, posting a flamingo on your vacation story, or using a jellyfish in a meme reply — the new emoji suite offers endless creative possibilities. So don’t just gossip — emojify your message!