Apple is releasing eight new emojis this spring, including a new type of dancer, a “killer” sea animal and a popular cryptid.
In the summer of 2025, the eight new emojis were approved by the Unicode Consortium. This nonprofit organization has been responsible for approving new emojis on devices globally, including Apple products, since 2010. The eight new options are part of the Unicode 17.0 release, which officially launched in September 2025. The rollout of these new emojis will continue on various devices and platforms through early 2026.
Apple product users can technically create their own emojis using Apple Intelligence’s Genmoji feature, launched in 2024; however, the eight new emojis, since they have the Unicode Consortium’s approval, can be used across various devices and platforms.
Here’s what to know about the new emojis coming to Apple products soon.
What are the new Apple emojis with iOS 26.4?
The new emojis coming to Apple products with the iOS 26.4 update include:
Ballet dancers (available in various skin tones)
Distorted face (bulging eyes extend from the head)
Fight cloud (as seen in cartoons)
Hairy creature (aka sasquatch)
Landslide (small rocks tumbling beside a larger rock)
Orca
Trombone
Treasure chest (full of gold, red gems, a pearl necklace and a crown)
When are the new Apple emojis available?
The eight new emojis are already available to folks who participate in the Apple Beta Software Program, which allows users inside access to new updates.
The emojis will be available widely with the iOS 26.4 update. As of March 10, Apple had not announced an official release date for the update, but has said it should be expected this spring.
Did you know that anyone can submit a design for a new emoji?
While the Unicode Consortium is the official body that approves new emoji designs, the ideas placed in front of the nonprofit organization can be made by anyone, including you! The consortium opened emoji submissions from the general public in 2025.
The consortium will begin accepting new emoji submissions on April 2, according to the organization’s website. The organization encourages designers to think of emoji concepts that can have multiple uses, be used alongside other emojis, appear distinct, and be used frequently across the globe. According to the consortium, only about 30 new emojis are approved each year, so the competition to make it through with an idea is tight.
Greta Cross is a national trending reporter at USA TODAY. Story idea? Email her at gcross@usatoday.com.
