How to Create Custom Emoji with Genmoji on iOS 18.2
AtWWDC 2024, Apple showcasediOS 18’s Genmoji feature, a new capability within Apple Intelligence. Genmoji uses AI to let you create custom emojis from text. Imagine typing “a cat wearing a birthday hat” and having the emoji appear. Genmoji is finally available to everyone with the 18.2 update. You can use these custom emojis in Messages, Mail, and other supported apps. Let’s see how to use Genmoji on your iPhone running iOS 18.
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What is Genmoji on iOS 18?
Genmoji is short for Generative + Emoji. This innovative feature allows you to use Apple’s generative AI to create new emojis from text. For example, you can type in “a monkey playing kung fu in snow” or “a dog eating ice cream under an umbrella,” and your iPhone will create that emoji for you.
you’re able to add Genmoji to messages or use them as a sticker or reaction in a Tapback. Genmoji also lets you create emojis inspired by images of your friends and family. So if you want an emoji of your brother wearing a birthday cap and cutting a cake, you can make one and even send it in the group chat to wish him a happy birthday.
Genmoji allows you to create custom emojis by either describing them with text or using images of your friends and family as inspiration. Simply type in what you want to create.
Requirements for Creating Genmoji on iPhone
Here’s what you need to know before creating emojis with Genmoji:
How to Create a Genmoji from Text
Once you’ve updated your iPhone to iOS 18.2, you can right away start using the Genmoji feature. Here’s how to use it:
You can alsolong-press on a Genmojito copy, share, or save it as a sticker on your iPhone.
How to Create Genmoji for Your Friends and Family
Remember we discussed how you may create Genmoji for your friends, family, and other contacts using their photos? Here’s how, but first make sure their contact information is saved on your iPhone. Genmoji can use the contact’s photo that’s already saved. Alternatively, you can upload a different photo from your iPhone.
Can’t Find the Person?
Apple AI may not recognize every name you type. In that case, simply type “Person” or “People.” Then tap the person you want to create a Genmoji for in the list below the Genmoji. This list comes from your Contacts and Photos app.
Using Genmoji in WhatsApp, Snapchat, and Other Apps
you may use Genmoji in WhatsApp, Snapchat, Instagram, and other chat apps the same way you use it inside Messages. Just hit the chat so the keyboard pops up, and go to the emoji screen. Here you’ll find the glowing emoji button. Tap it to open the Genmoji creation screen.
Type your prompts, create fun Genmoji, and send them to your friends, colleagues, or family in any app.
How to Delete a Genmoji from Your iPhone
Yes, you can easily delete a Genmoji after creating one. To do so:
If you added the Genmoji as a sticker, you can follow our guide onremoving stickers on iOS.
Remember: Genmoji Support is Limited to These iPhones
As mentioned, Genmoji was released with iOS 18.2, which rolled out on June 29, 2025. However, it will only work on the following iPhone models:
Older iPhones, including iPhone 15, iPhone 14, iPhone 13, iPhone 12, iPhone 11, XS, and X,will not support Apple AI features, even if they have received the iOS 18 update. This is due to their hardware limitations.
Therefore, these iPhones cannot create Genmoji, but users can still view and use Genmoji received from others.
Ritik Singh
With over 7 years of experience in tech, Ritik currently heads content at Techwiser.com. His journey started by sharing knowledge and helping others in online communities. That passion soon turned into a career in tech journalism, backed by a formal education in Electronic Media. He’s held editorial roles at GadgetsToUse and PC-Tablet, and has contributed to popular publications like HowToGeek and TheWindowsClub. With over 2,000 how-tos, reviews, and in-depth guides under his belt, Ritik has helped millions of readers get more out of their tech—from smartphones to smart homes.
