How to Create Memoji on iOS 12

This guide walks you through creating and using Memoji on iOS 12, the feature that lets you build an animated 3D avatar that mirrors your facial expressions. You’ll need an iPhone or iPad Pro with a TrueDepth camera (iPhone X or later, iPad Pro 11-inch or 12.9-inch 3rd generation or later) running iOS 12 or newer. The process is built into the Messages app, so no extra downloads are required.

What You’ll Need

An iPhone or iPad Pro with Face ID (TrueDepth camera).
iOS 12 or later installed.
The Messages app (preinstalled).
iMessage enabled (Settings > Messages > iMessage).

Step-by-Step

Open Messages: Tap the Messages app on your home screen.
Start a new conversation or open an existing one: Tap the compose button (square with a pencil) in the top right, or tap any existing conversation.
Access the App Drawer: Below the text field, you’ll see a row of icons. Tap the App Store icon (three horizontal lines with circles) to open the app drawer.
Find the Memoji icon: In the app drawer, look for the Memoji icon — it looks like a monkey face. It’s usually in the row of apps at the bottom. If you don’t see it, swipe left on the bottom row to find it.
Tap the Memoji icon: This opens the Memoji sticker picker.
Start a new Memoji: If you haven’t created one yet, tap the “+” (plus) button in the top left of the sticker picker. If you already have one, tap the “…” (more) button and then “Edit” to modify it.
Customize your Memoji: You’ll see a blank avatar in the center. Scroll through the categories on the left: Skin, Hairstyle, Head, Eyes, Eyebrows, Nose, Lips, Ears, Facial Hair, Glasses, and Headwear. Tap each category and swipe through the options on the right. Use the color swatches to change colors where available.
Adjust details: For some features, like skin tone or eye color, you can tap the color palette and drag the slider to fine-tune the shade. For hairstyle, you can also adjust the color and sometimes the part.
Preview your Memoji: As you make changes, the avatar updates in real time. You can also tap the avatar to see it from different angles.
Save your Memoji: When you’re happy with the look, tap “Done” in the top right corner. Your Memoji is now saved and will appear in the sticker picker.
Send a Memoji sticker: Tap your Memoji in the picker to see a selection of animated stickers (like “Hello,” “Thumbs up,” “Laughing”). Tap one to send it directly in the message.
Record a Memoji video or take a photo: In the same sticker picker, tap the circle with a camera icon at the bottom. This opens the camera with your Memoji overlaid. Tap the shutter button to take a photo, or press and hold the red record button to record a video (up to 30 seconds). Tap the send button to share it.
Use Memoji in FaceTime: During a FaceTime call, tap the Effects button (star icon) in the bottom left, then tap the Memoji icon. Choose your Memoji, and it will replace your face on screen.

Common Mistakes

Not seeing the Memoji icon: The Memoji icon only appears if your device supports Face ID. If you have an iPhone 8 or earlier, you won’t have this feature.
Can’t find the “+” button: If you already have a Memoji, the “+” button may be hidden. Tap “…” (more) in the top left, then “Edit,” and you’ll see the option to create a new one.
Memoji not tracking your face: Make sure you’re in a well-lit area and the TrueDepth camera isn’t blocked by a case or screen protector.
Forgetting to save: If you exit the customization screen without tapping “Done,” your changes are lost.

Tips

Use the slider for precise colors: Instead of just the preset swatches, tap the color wheel icon to get a slider for exact skin tone, eye color, and hair color.
Mix and match hairstyles: You can choose different hair colors for the top and the sides/back if the style supports it.
Make multiple Memoji: You can create several different Memoji (e.g., one with glasses, one without) and switch between them in the picker.
Use Memoji in FaceTime: Memoji aren’t just for messages — they work in FaceTime calls too, which is fun for hiding your face or just being silly.
Update iOS: If you’re on an older version of iOS 12, some features or options may be missing. Check Settings > General > Software Update.

Troubleshooting

Memoji option is grayed out or missing: This almost always means your device doesn’t have a TrueDepth camera. Check if your iPhone has Face ID (iPhone X or later). If it does, restart your phone and try again.
Memoji doesn’t animate: Ensure your face is clearly visible and centered in the frame. Remove any sunglasses or items that cover your eyes or upper face. Also, check that the TrueDepth camera lens is clean.
Memoji won’t send: Make sure you have an internet connection (Wi-Fi or cellular). If it still fails, try toggling iMessage off and on in Settings > Messages.
Can’t record video: The video recording uses the front camera. If it’s not working, close the Messages app and reopen it. If the problem persists, restart your device.
Memoji looks different from what I created: Sometimes the lighting or angle can make it look off. Try adjusting the skin tone or hair color slightly. Also, make sure you saved it by tapping “Done” after editing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I create Memoji on iPhone 8 or earlier?

No. Memoji requires the TrueDepth camera, which is only available on iPhone X and later, and iPad Pro models with Face ID.

Can I use Memoji in WhatsApp or other apps?

No, Memoji are only available within Apple’s Messages app and FaceTime. However, you can save a Memoji sticker as an image and share it as a photo in other apps.

How many Memoji can I create?

There’s no hard limit, but you can only have a certain number displayed in the picker at once. You can delete old ones to make room for new ones.

Can I edit a Memoji after I’ve created it?

Yes. Open the Memoji picker in Messages, tap the “…” (more) button, then tap “Edit” next to the Memoji you want to change.

Why is my Memoji not showing up in FaceTime?

Make sure you’re in a FaceTime call (not just the dial screen), tap the Effects button (star icon), then select the Memoji tab. If it’s not there, try ending the call and starting a new one.

Can I use Memoji without sending a message?

Yes, you can use Memoji in FaceTime, or you can take a photo or video with your Memoji and save it to your camera roll (tap the share button and choose “Save Video” or “Save Image”).

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

More in this bed

The whole Tech How-To bed →