How to Use Genmoji in iOS 26 on Older iPhones: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

Apple’s iOS 26 has brought significant innovations to the iPhone experience, and one of the most exciting features is Genmoji—AI-powered custom emojis that let users express themselves in ways traditional emojis simply cannot. While Genmoji was initially introduced with Apple Intelligence, iOS 26 has expanded and refined this feature with improved customization options, emotional expressions, and physical attribute modifications.

However, if you own an older iPhone (such as iPhone 13, 14, or 12), you might be wondering: Can I use Genmoji on my device? The short answer is both yes and no—and this guide will explain exactly how.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore native Genmoji functionality on compatible devices, provide detailed step-by-step instructions for newer models, and reveal practical workarounds for older iPhones that don’t have native Apple Intelligence support.

Understanding Genmoji: What They Are and Why They Matter

What Exactly Is a Genmoji?

Unlike standard Unicode emojis that are fixed characters used universally across all platforms, Genmoji are dynamically generated, personalized emoji-like stickers created using on-device artificial intelligence. They exist as unique images rather than traditional emoji characters, allowing infinite customization possibilities.

For instance, while standard emoji collections offer a limited set of expressions, Genmoji lets you create custom variations like:

An astronaut doing the moonwalk
A specific person wearing sunglasses on a beach
A dog playing bagpipes
Custom emotional expressions based on your exact description

Key Advantages of Genmoji Over Standard Emojis

Feature	Standard Emojis	Genmoji
Customization Level	Fixed and universal	Unlimited personalization
Update Frequency	Annual Unicode updates only	Created on-demand
Personal Representation	Limited options	Based on your photos and descriptions
Emotional Accuracy	Generic expressions	Custom expressions (happy, tired, surprised, etc.)
Compatibility	Works everywhere	Appears as images on older devices/Android
Privacy	Cloud-based processing	100% on-device processing

How Genmoji Uses On-Device AI

Apple processes all Genmoji generation directly on your iPhone using on-device AI technology. This means your prompts and personal data never leave your device—a significant privacy advantage. The feature is currently marked as beta in iOS 26, which means Apple continues refining the quality and accuracy of generated images.

iOS 26 Genmoji Compatibility: Which iPhones Support It?

Native Genmoji Support (Full Apple Intelligence Features)

Only these iPhone models can natively create Genmoji with iOS 26:

iPhone 17, 17 Pro, 17 Pro Max
iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max
iPhone 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max

Native Genmoji support requires the Apple Intelligence framework, which demands significant processing power available only on devices with the A17 Pro chip or newer.

iOS 26 Compatibility (But Limited Genmoji Features)

These devices can run iOS 26 but cannot natively create Genmoji due to hardware limitations:

iPhone 15, 15 Plus
iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
iPhone SE (2nd generation and later)

Devices Dropped from iOS 26 Support

The following models cannot update to iOS 26 and should consider third-party alternatives for Genmoji functionality:

iPhone XS, XS Max, XR

iPhone Genmoji and iOS 26 Compatibility Matrix

Part 1: How to Use Native Genmoji on iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 16, and iPhone 17

Step 1: Verify Your Device Meets All Requirements

Before attempting to create Genmoji, confirm your device has:

Compatible Hardware: iPhone 15 Pro/Max, iPhone 16 series, or iPhone 17 series
Latest iOS Version: iOS 18.2 or later (iOS 26 recommended)
Sufficient Storage: At least 2-3 GB of available storage
Apple Intelligence Enabled: Activated in Settings
Correct Language Settings: Siri and iPhone must be set to the same language

To check your iOS version:

Open Settings app
Tap General → About
Look for iOS version number (should display iOS 26.x or iOS 18.2+)

Step 2: Enable Apple Intelligence

Apple Intelligence must be enabled for Genmoji to function. Here’s how:

Open the Settings app
Tap Apple Intelligence & Siri
Toggle on Apple Intelligence
Ensure your language matches your Siri language setting
Tap Set Up and follow the on-screen prompts
Wait for the AI models to download (requires internet connection and charging)
You’ll receive a notification when setup is complete

Step 3: Enable Sticker Emoji Keyboard (Critical Step)

This step is frequently overlooked but essential for Genmoji to appear:

Open Settings
Navigate to General → Keyboard
Scroll to the bottom and find Stickers
Toggle on Sticker Emoji Keyboard

Step 4: Open Messages and Access the Emoji Keyboard

Open the Messages app or any other compatible app (Notes, Mail, WhatsApp, social media)
Tap the text field
Tap the Emoji icon (smiley face) in the keyboard
The emoji keyboard will appear

Step 5: Tap the Genmoji Option

At the top-right corner of the emoji keyboard, you’ll see a small icon. Look for:

A colorful smiley face icon labeled “Genmoji”
Tap this to enter Genmoji creation mode

Step 6: Create Your Genmoji Using Multiple Methods

iOS 26 offers several ways to create Genmoji. Choose the method that suits your vision:

Method A: Using Text Descriptions

Tap the text input field that says “Describe a Genmoji”
Type your creative description (Examples: “astronaut juggling fruit,” “happy corgi wearing a crown,” “person meditating in a forest”)
Tap the Create button (or checkmark icon)
Wait 2-5 seconds for AI to generate variations
Review the generated options

Method B: Mixing Emojis and Descriptions

Tap emoji suggestions below the input field
Select up to 7 different emoji or concepts
Optionally add a text description to refine the result
Tap Create
Wait for generation

Method C: Creating Genmoji of People from Your Photos

Tap the person icon (usually shown as a photo frame icon)
Select “Choose from Photos”
Browse your photo library and select a person’s photo
For best results, choose clear, well-lit photos showing the person’s face
Optional: Add descriptive context like “hiking on a mountain” or “dancing at a party”
Tap Create

Pro Tip: iOS 26 allows you to customize how the person appears by:

Changing hairstyle options
Adjusting facial hair style
Adding or changing eyewear
Setting custom emotional expressions (happy, tired, surprised, etc.)

Step 7: Review and Refine Generated Options

Once generation completes, you’ll see your first Genmoji variation:

Swipe left or right to browse through 4-6 different versions generated by the AI
Each swipe shows a new interpretation of your description
If none satisfy you, tap refresh/regenerate to create new variations

Step 8: Customize Appearance (For Person-Based Genmoji)

For Genmoji based on people:

Tap the edit icon (pencil symbol)
Choose “Customize Appearance” to access:
- Hairstyle options (straight, curly, buzz cut, etc.)
- Facial hair styles (beard, goatee, clean shaven, etc.)
- Eyewear selection (glasses, sunglasses, no glasses, etc.)
- Custom expressions (happy, sad, sleepy, surprised, etc.)
- Additional details field for refinements
Make your selections
Tap Done to apply changes

Step 9: Add Your Genmoji to Your Message

Once you’re satisfied with your creation:

Tap the checkmark or “Add” button
The Genmoji will be inserted directly into your message
Review the placement and context
Tap Send to share

Step 10: Managing and Reusing Your Genmoji

Created Genmoji are automatically saved and easily accessible:

Future Access: Every Genmoji you create is saved in your sticker collection
Reusing Genmoji: Open the emoji keyboard → tap Genmoji section → find your creation
Deleting Genmoji: Long-press a saved Genmoji → tap Delete
Using as Tapback: Long-press a message in Messages → select your Genmoji to react

Part 2: Genmoji on Older iPhones – Your Complete Alternative Guide

If you’re using an iPhone 13, 14, 12, or 11, native Genmoji creation isn’t available due to hardware limitations. However, multiple practical workarounds exist.

Option 1: Genmoji Hub App (Recommended)

Genmoji Hub is the most direct third-party solution for older iPhones.

Installation Steps:

Open the App Store
Search for “Genmoji Hub” (or “Emoji Hub”)
Tap Get → authenticate with Face ID/Touch ID
Wait for installation to complete

Using Genmoji Hub:

Launch the Genmoji Hub app
Browse available emoji packs and AI-generated emoji collections
Select the emoji packs you want
Tap Save to Photos to download them
The emoji packs will be saved to your Photos app

Converting to Stickers and Keyboard Access:

Open Photos app
Navigate to your saved emoji packs
Long-press the emoji image
Tap Create Sticker or Add to Stickers
Use these stickers in Messages and other apps
They’ll appear in your sticker keyboard for easy access

Advantages:

No subscription required
Simple interface
Works on older iPhone models
Large collection of pre-made emoji packs

Limitations:

Pre-created packs rather than AI-generated on-demand
Limited customization compared to native Genmoji
You cannot describe custom emoji in real-time

Option 2: Microsoft Copilot App

Microsoft Copilot provides AI-generated image and emoji creation capabilities.

Installation:

Open App Store
Search “Microsoft Copilot”
Tap Get and install

Creating Emoji with Copilot:

Open Copilot app
Select Image creation or Design feature
Describe the emoji you want (e.g., “cute cat astronaut emoji style”)
Copilot generates images based on your prompt
Save the generated image
Convert to sticker (see steps above)

Advantages:

Advanced AI with detailed customization
Real-time generation based on descriptions
More sophisticated image quality

Limitations:

Requires Microsoft account
May include Copilot branding
Slightly more complex interface
Requires internet connection for each creation

Option 3: Image Playground (If iOS 26 Compatible)

On some iOS 26 compatible older models, you may have limited access to Image Playground, Apple’s image creation tool.

Using Image Playground for Emoji:

Open Image Playground app (if available)
Select Emoji or Sketch category
Describe or upload a sketch
Tap Create
Save the result
Convert to sticker for keyboard access

Part 3: Advanced Genmoji Features in iOS 26

Creating Complex Multi-Element Genmoji

iOS 26 lets you combine up to 7 different elements in a single Genmoji:

Start with a base concept (e.g., “person”)
Add activities (e.g., “surfing”)
Add settings (e.g., “on a beach”)
Add accessories (e.g., “wearing sunglasses”)
Add emotional context (e.g., “smiling”)
Add physical attributes (e.g., “blonde hair”)
Add additional details (e.g., “sunset lighting”)

Example prompt: “A smiling person with curly brown hair surfing on a surfboard at a beautiful beach during sunset, wearing stylish sunglasses”

Integrating ChatGPT for Enhanced Styling

iOS 26 introduces ChatGPT integration for image and emoji styling:

Create your base Genmoji
Tap “Style with ChatGPT” (if available in Image Playground)
Choose an artistic style:
- Oil painting
- Watercolor
- Pixel art
- Cyberpunk
- Vintage photograph
- 3D render
ChatGPT reimagines your Genmoji in that style
Save and use the styled version

Using Genmoji in Image Playground

Genmoji seamlessly integrates with Image Playground, Apple’s creative suite:

Open Image Playground app
Select Create → Emoji category
Use any of the methods above (text, sketches, concepts)
Save directly to Photos
Share or convert to stickers

Cross-Platform Sharing

Important: Genmoji are shared as regular images, so:

iOS/iPadOS 18.2+: Display as inline emoji characters
macOS Sequoia 15.1+: Display as inline emoji characters
Older Apple devices & Android: Display as regular image files
All platforms: Can still view and appreciate the custom emoji

Troubleshooting Common Genmoji Issues

Issue 1: Genmoji Option Not Appearing

Solution:

Verify Apple Intelligence is enabled (Settings → Apple Intelligence & Siri)
Ensure Sticker Emoji Keyboard is toggled on (Settings → General → Keyboard → Stickers)
Restart the Messages app
Restart your iPhone if issue persists

Issue 2: “Image Creation Not Available” Error

Solution:

Ensure device is connected to Wi-Fi
Device must be charging or plugged in
Check that you have at least 2 GB storage available
Try again after 5-10 minutes (software download may be in progress)

Issue 3: Generated Images Have Poor Quality

Solution:

Remember that Genmoji is still in beta—quality varies
Try a more specific, detailed description
Regenerate by swiping through options
Avoid overly complex or contradictory descriptions

Issue 4: Genmoji Not Sending Correctly

Solution:

Verify recipient device is running iOS 18.1 or later
On older recipient devices, Genmoji will appear as image files (normal behavior)
Check internet connection
Try resending via different app if Messages fails

Issue 5: Can’t Find Previously Created Genmoji

Solution:

Open Messages
Open emoji keyboard
Swipe right to see “Stickers” tab
Scroll through your saved Genmoji collection
If still missing, check Photos app → Recently Deleted folder

Best Practices for Creating Excellent Genmoji

Writing Effective Descriptions

DO:

Be specific and detailed: “A golden retriever wearing a pilot hat flying a small airplane”
Include context: “Person meditating on a mountaintop at sunrise”
Specify emotions: “Laughing, joyful expression on the person’s face”
Mention style preferences: “Watercolor art style” or “cartoon illustration”

DON’T:

Use vague descriptions: “Happy” or “Cool emoji”
Combine contradictions: “Sad but celebrating” (conflicting emotions)
Request copyrighted characters: “Spider-Man emoji” may not generate expected results
Expect photorealism: Genmoji excel at stylized, emoji-like art

Optimizing Photo Selection for Person-Based Genmoji

Use clear, well-lit photos with the person’s face clearly visible
Avoid photos with multiple people—the AI may struggle to identify the target
Choose recent photos for accurate representation
Ensure good contrast between the face and background
Avoid heavily filtered or edited photos that misrepresent actual appearance

Saving Time with Frequently Used Genmoji

Create your most-used Genmoji once
They’re automatically saved to your sticker collection
Quick access from any text field
Use Tapback reactions in Messages with your custom Genmoji
Share Genmoji packs with friends (available on newer iOS versions)

Genmoji Use Cases: Creative Applications

Personal Communication

Create a custom emoji representing yourself
Generate family member emojis based on photos
Make pet-based Genmoji for sharing with friends

Business and Professional Use

Design branded emoji for company internal communications
Create professional character representations for team channels
Generate mood indicators for status updates

Content Creation

Illustrate blog posts with custom emoji
Create unique reactions for social media engagement
Design personal branding elements for creator accounts

Entertainment and Social Media

Generate trending Genmoji for TikTok, Instagram, or Twitter
Create funny reaction packs to share with followers
Design custom emoji for Discord or Slack communities

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use Genmoji on my iPhone 13?

A: Not natively with Apple Intelligence. However, you can use third-party apps like Genmoji Hub or Microsoft Copilot to create AI-generated emoji packs that function similarly. See Part 2 of this guide for detailed instructions.

Q2: Do I need an active internet connection to create Genmoji?

A: Yes, for initial setup and downloading AI models. However, the actual Genmoji generation happens entirely on your device without sending data to Apple’s servers—ensuring privacy.

Q3: Will my created Genmoji work on Android phones?

A: Yes, but they’ll appear as image files rather than inline emoji characters. Recipients on Android can still view and appreciate your custom emoji.

Q4: How much storage do Genmoji use?

A: Individual Genmoji are small image files (typically 50-200 KB each). Even creating hundreds of Genmoji will use minimal storage.

Q5: Can I edit a Genmoji after creating it?

A: You can regenerate variations or create a new version with refined descriptions. The original saved Genmoji cannot be edited, but you can delete and recreate it.

Q6: Is Genmoji free to use?

A: Yes, completely free. Apple Intelligence and Genmoji are included with iOS 18.2+ at no additional cost (hardware dependent).

Q7: What happens to Genmoji I create—are they stored in the cloud?

A: Your created Genmoji are saved locally on your device in the sticker section. They sync through iCloud if you have iCloud Keychain enabled, but the generation process itself is entirely on-device.

Q8: Can I create Genmoji of real celebrities?

A: You can create emoji-style interpretations based on descriptions, but results may vary. Highly stylized emoji format means celebrity likenesses may not be perfectly recognizable.

Q9: Are there content restrictions for Genmoji?

A: Yes, similar to Image Playground, Apple maintains content guidelines. The AI will decline to generate offensive, violent, or inappropriate content.

Q10: Will older iPhone models like iPhone 11 ever support native Genmoji?

A: Unlikely. Native Genmoji requires the processing power of A17 Pro chips or newer. iPhone 11 has an A13 chip. However, third-party alternatives will continue improving.

Conclusion

Genmoji in iOS 26 represents a significant leap in personal expression and digital communication. Whether you’re using a cutting-edge iPhone 17 with native Apple Intelligence or an older iPhone 12 relying on third-party alternatives, you now have practical ways to create and use custom emoji.

Key Takeaways:

Native Support: iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 16, and iPhone 17 series offer full Genmoji creation with Apple Intelligence
Workarounds Available: Older iPhones can access similar functionality through Genmoji Hub, Microsoft Copilot, and other apps
Privacy First: On-device AI processing means your creative prompts never leave your iPhone
Easy Sharing: Genmoji work across iOS, macOS, and even appear as images on Android devices
Constantly Improving: iOS 26 brings enhanced customization, emotional expressions, and physical attributes to Genmoji

Whether you’re creating professional branded emoji, sharing personalized character representations with family, or simply having fun with creative expression, Genmoji offer unprecedented flexibility that traditional emoji simply cannot match.

Start creating your first Genmoji today, and discover how this AI-powered feature can enhance your digital communication in ways you haven’t imagined.

About the author–

Javed Ahmad is an Information Technology Specialist at Accenture with a postgraduate degree in IT and over 5 years of enterprise-level experience. He specializes in creating hands-on guides for B2B platforms, software tools, and FinTech, helping users solve complex technical problems with professional-grade accuracy. LinkedIn.