iOS 27 Enhances Genmoji with Photo and Phrase Suggestions

Apple is set to enhance the Genmoji feature in iOS 27 and iPadOS 27 by integrating suggestions based on user-typed phrases and stored images. This update aims to boost user engagement with Genmoji, which has struggled to gain traction since its introduction in 2024.

Suggested Genmoji to Boost Usage

The new Suggested Genmoji feature will work similarly to existing emoji suggestions in Messages. As users type common phrases, the software will generate relevant Genmoji options, creating a more personalized and engaging typing experience. This change is expected to encourage users to experiment with Genmoji more frequently.

A Toggle for User Control

Not all users may want these additional suggestions, so Apple will provide a toggle to disable the feature. This option allows users to hide Suggested Genmoji, ensuring that the experience can be tailored to individual preferences.

Improvements Build on Previous Updates

The updates to Genmoji come alongside a series of enhancements Apple has made in recent iterations. In iOS 26, users gained the ability to create custom expressions using prompts like "Smiling" and "Shocked," while also incorporating physical traits such as hair and accessories. The AI behind Genmoji was upgraded to deliver smarter suggestions and higher-quality images, along with support for Tapback reactions.

A Future Reveal at WWDC 2026

Apple plans to showcase these changes at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June 2026. The company hopes these improvements will make Genmoji a more integral part of the iOS experience, encouraging broader adoption among users who may have overlooked the feature in the past.

With these adjustments, Apple is clearly making a concerted effort to enhance user interaction with Genmoji, aiming to turn it into a staple of communication in its ecosystem. The success of these changes will depend on user reception and whether they find the new suggestions genuinely helpful and engaging.