Apple recently unveiled Apple Intelligence at WWDC 2024. One of the standout features of this new AI integration is Genmoji, a tool that allows users to create custom emojis on the fly simply by describing what they need. This feature will be part of the upcoming iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS 15 operating systems.
Genmoji, a blend of “Generative Emoji,” leverages Apple Intelligence to enable users to craft unique emojis by typing descriptions. Whether it’s a smiley face with cucumber slices over its eyes or a tutu-wearing T. rex on a surfboard, Genmoji can bring imaginative and personalized emojis to life instantly.
How to use the Genmoji feature?
Using Genmoji is straightforward and integrated seamlessly into the Messages app:
- Open the Messages app.
- Start a new message or reply to one.
- Tap the emoji icon next to the text field.
- Go to the Genmoji tab.
- Type a description of the emoji you want.
- Apple Intelligence will generate multiple emoji options based on your description. Choose the one you like best to insert it into your message.
Genmoji’s capabilities aren’t limited to text descriptions. Users can also create emojis based on photos of friends and family, adding a unique personal touch to their communications. For instance, you can turn a photo of a friend into a secret agent emoji or any other creative concept that comes to mind.
Moreover, these custom emojis can be used not just in messages but also as stickers or Tapback reactions, enhancing the versatility and personalization of digital conversations.
In addition to Genmoji, Apple also introduced Image Playground, a feature that lets users generate images using AI within various apps, including Messages, Freeform, and Pages, or through a dedicated Image Playground app. The generated images, intentionally cartoon-like to avoid realistic AI-generated image controversies, offer a playful and creative outlet for users.
Apple has made these new AI capabilities opt-in, ensuring users can choose whether they want to engage with these features. However, due to the demanding processing requirements of AI, Genmoji and other AI functionalities will be limited to the iPhone 15 Pro and the upcoming iPhone 16. For iPad and Mac users, devices must be equipped with at least an M1 chip to utilize these new functions.
Apple’s playful and innovative approach with Genmoji comes at a time when AI applications are under intense scrutiny. By focusing on a whimsical use of AI, Apple aims to generate positive interest and provide a creative, non-controversial AI application. This stands in contrast to recent AI mishaps, such as Google’s Gemini suggesting bizarre food combinations, which have fueled public skepticism towards AI.
While Genmoji offers a limitless array of custom emojis, Apple continues to expand its regular emoji catalog. The Unicode Consortium is currently considering new emojis like a face with droopy eye bags, a leafless wintry tree, and a purple splatter stain, among others, expected to be finalized by early July.
