Apple’s latest iOS 18.1 software update introduced a series of Apple Intelligence features, including Writing Tools and notification summaries. However, some features were missing from the lineup, like Genmoji, which allows users to create emojis from written prompts.
Now, with iOS 18.2, iPadOS 18.2, and macOS Sequoia 15.2 officially available, the highly anticipated AI-generated Bitmoji feature is finally here for users to try. It was previously only available as a public beta.
Here’s what you need to know about the Apple Intelligence feature that many people are excited about.
What is a Genmoji?
Genmoji initially debuted at WWDC 2024 back in June. Built into the iPhone’s emoji keyboard, the feature lets people 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’s also possible to react to a message with a Genmoji or with Apple’s message effects.
How to create a customized emoji with Apple Intelligence
To use Genmoji, first make sure Apple Intelligence is enabled. Then launch the Messages app, start a new message (or go to an existing chat), and click on the emoji keyboard located in the bottom left corner. Next, 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 include that new emoji to the keyboard.
To save a Genmoji that someone else sends, long press on it and select “Emoji Details,” which will display the prompt that was used to generate it. There’s also an option to download it.
When is the official launch of Genmoji?
Genmoji is currently available with Apple’s iOS 18.2 update.
What Apple devices support Genmoji?
- iPhone 15 Pro
- iPhone 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 16
- iPhone 16 Plus
- 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 because of certain regulations.
Regarding language support, it’s currently available in U.S. English and has started to roll out localized English support for users in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, and the U.K.
By 2025, Chinese, English (India), English (Singapore), French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, and Vietnamese will also become available.
This story was updated after its initial publication.
