How to type emoji on an iPhone

Every iPhone has an emoji keyboard built in. Tap the 😀 or globe key to switch to it, and use the search bar to find any emoji by name in seconds.

Switch to the emoji keyboard

In any text field, tap the 😀 (or 🌐 globe) key at the bottom-left of the keyboard. Swipe through categories, or tap the search field and type a name like “fire” to jump straight to it.

Predictive emoji

As you type words, iOS suggests matching emoji in the predictive bar above the keyboard — type “pizza” and 🍕 appears to tap. You can also type a message, then switch to the emoji keyboard and iOS highlights words it can replace with emoji.

If the emoji key is missing

Go to Settings → General → Keyboard → Keyboards → Add New Keyboard → Emoji to enable it.

Frequently asked questions