How to get and use Genmoji in iOS 18

Genmoji™ is one of the most highly-anticipated features of iOS® 18. A combination of the words “emoji” and “generative AI,” Genmoji gives you a new way to express yourself when smiley faces, heart eyes, and melting heads just won’t cut it.

Asurion Experts offer more than just tech fixes—we're also here to help you understand AI innovations so you can make the most of your iOS experience. Here's how to get started using Genmoji.

What is Genmoji and how does it work? 

Genmoji is a new feature in iOS 18 that uses generative AI to create custom emojis. Simply enter a prompt such as “mouse in a helmet riding a motorcycle”in your Messages app and Gemoji will create just that—as an emoji. 

Genmojis function the same way as regular emojis. Incorporate them into text or copy, paste, and send them as stickers. 

How to access Genmoji in iOS 18

You may be wondering how to get Genmoji. Currently, Genmoji is only available on Apple devices that support Apple Intelligence, including:

• iPhone 16 
• iPhone 15 Pro
• iPhone 15 Pro Max
• iPad mini with A17 chip
• Any iPad with an M-series chip

The Genmoji release date is set for December 2024. When it becomes available to you, make sure your iPhone is updated to iOS 18.2 by visiting Settings > General > Software update. Here’s how to use Genmoji:

1. In Messages, tap + and select Image Playground.
2. Follow the prompts to request early access to Genmoji.
3. Return to Messages.
4. Compose a new message or reply to a thread.
5. Tap the emoji icon.
6. Start typing a description in the text field. For example, “two blue palm trees in the shape of a heart.”
7. Tap create new emoji.
8. Select the generated version that you like the most and tap insert.

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Genmoji FAQs

Can you use Genmoji in third-party apps?

Yes, just like standard emoji characters, you can use Genmoji in third-party apps. Apple’s new API, NSAdaptiveimageGlyph, allows developers to integrate Genmoji into their apps easily.

Genmoji is not showing up—what do I do?

Genmoji is only available on devices that support Apple Intelligence. If you have one of these devices and Genmoji is still not showing up, here are some things you can do:

• Wait until Genmoji is released. Genmoji will be released at the end of 2024. If you can’t find it on your device, the solution may be as simple as… just waiting. 
• Update to iOS 18.2. Genmoji is supported on the most up-to-date operating system, iOS 18.2. Make sure your device is updated by visiting Settings > General > Software update.
• Request early access to Genmoji. In Messages, tap + and select Image Playground. You will then be prompted to request early access to Genmoji. Make sure that you have clicked through the prompt and that the request was received.