New Emoji Arriving with iOS 26.4

Apple is set to release eight new emoji with the upcoming iOS 26.4 update this spring, adding more diversity and expression to digital conversations. These additions, approved by the Unicode Consortium in the summer of 2025, will be widely available to Apple product users.

What New Emoji Will Be Available?

The eight new emoji joining the Apple ecosystem with iOS 26.4 include:

• Ballet dancers (available in various skin tones)
• Distorted face (with bulging eyes)
• Fight cloud (as seen in cartoons)
• Hairy creature (also known as Sasquatch)
• Landslide (rocks tumbling beside a larger rock)
• Orca
• Trombone
• Treasure chest (filled with gold, gems, and a pearl necklace)

Availability and Beta Access

Currently, the new emoji are available to users participating in the Apple Beta Software Program. The wider release will come with the iOS 26.4 update, expected this spring, though Apple has not yet announced a specific release date. USA Today reports that the rollout will continue on various devices and platforms through early 2026.

Unicode Consortium and Cross-Platform Compatibility

The Unicode Consortium, responsible for approving new emoji since 2010, approved these eight options as part of the Unicode 17.0 release in September 2025. 9to5Mac highlights that these Unicode-approved emoji can be used across various devices and platforms, unlike those created using Apple Intelligence’s Genmoji feature.

Additional iOS 26.4 Features

Beyond the new emoji, the iOS 26.4 beta 4 also introduces conclude-to-end encryption for RCS conversations with Android devices, enhancing message security. Technobezz also notes a new “Reduce Bright Effects” accessibility setting and AI-generated playlist creation for Apple Music.