Screenshot by Lance Whitney

Those who like to spice up text messages with emojis may get tired of using the same old generic images. Wouldn't it be cool if you could create your own emojis? Now, you can, if you own an iPhone or iPad that supports Apple Intelligence.

Unveiled in iOS/iPadOS 18.2, a new feature called Genmoji lets you cook up your custom emoji. Just describe the character or object you envision, and Apple's AI does its best to match your description. You can then insert your new emoji in a message, copy it, share it, add a caption, and save it as a sticker to reuse it. Here's how this process works.

Also: Apple Intelligence will improve Siri in 2024, but don't expect most updates until 2025

To use any of the Apple Intelligence AI features, including Genmoji, you must have the right device. That means anyiPhone 16 model, aniPhone 15 Pro , aniPhone 15 Pro Max , anyiPad model with an M1 chip or later, or a 2024 iPad mini with an A17 Pro chip.

You can create and apply Genmoji in multiple text-based apps where the emoji keyboard is available. As well as programs like Mail, Messages, and Notes, you can use Genmoji in social media apps like Facebook and X and productivity software like Pages and Keynote.

1. Update your device

First, you'll need to update iOS or iPadOS to version 18.2. On your iPhone or iPad, head to Settings, select General, and then tap Software Update. Select the Update Now button to download the latest version.

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2. Activate Apple Intelligence

Next, you'll need to enable Apple Intelligence. Go to Settings, select the one for Apple Intelligence & Siri, and turn on the switch for Apple Intelligence if it's not already on.

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3. Open a text-based app

To create and use a Genmoji, open an app in which you can input text. You'll also probably want to try one that lets you share your custom emoji with someone else. That's why Mail or Messages are good candidates. For this example, let's try Messages.

Also: Apple is finally adding RCS texting to the iPhone with iOS 18 - here's why it's a big deal for me

After launching the Messages app, start or resume a conversation. Tap the Emoji icon on the keyboard or press down on the globe icon and select Emoji from the list. You should see the small Genmoji icon to the right of the "Describe an Emoji" field. Tap that Genmoji icon.

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4. Describe the Genmoji

At the "Describe a Genmoji" field, type or speak a few words or a phrase to describe the type of emoji you want to create. Keep the description short but include whatever details you want. The image then appears in the center. Swipe to the left and right to view different variations of the image.

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5. Revise the Genmoji

If you want to tweak or change the Genmoji, revise or replace the prompt with a new description. Again, swipe left and right to view each variation.

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6. Share or save your Genmoji

When you find a Genmoji and variation you like and want to use and reuse, tap the ellipsis icon next to it. 

Also: iOS 18.2 rolls out to iPhones: Try these 6 new AI features today

From the menu, you can copy and paste it, share it via the iOS/iPadOS Share menu, save it as a sticker, or add a caption. Tap the option of your choice.

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7. Send the Genmoji

To insert the Genmoji in a text message, just tap Add. At the message screen, add any text or other elements you want to include and then tap the arrow icon to send it to the person on the other end.

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