Apple recently introduced Genmoji, a cutting-edge AI feature that allows users to create custom emojis based on simple text descriptions. This feature is designed to give users the freedom to express their feelings more accurately and creatively. However, despite being a highly anticipated addition to iOS 18, not everyone is able to use Genmoji effectively. If you’re facing issues with Genmoji on your iPhone running iOS 18, you’re not alone. This article covers eight tested methods to fix problems related to Genmoji not working on iOS 18.
1. Verify Device Compatibility
One of the first things you should do if Genmoji isn’t working on your iPhone is to check if your device is compatible with Apple Intelligence features. Genmoji is only available on Apple Intelligence-compatible devices, which include the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, all iPhone 16 models, A17 Pro or M-Series iPads, and all Apple Silicon Macs. Even if your device is compatible with the latest iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia, it does not necessarily mean that you can access Apple Intelligence features like Genmoji.
Having an Apple Intelligence-compatible device is crucial for using Genmoji effectively. If you don’t see Genmoji on your device, it’s important to verify that your iPhone or iPad falls under the list of supported models. In many cases, users assume that updating to iOS 18 is enough to access Genmoji, but compatibility is just as crucial. Therefore, if you’ve confirmed that your device is compatible and Genmoji is still not working, you can proceed to the other steps outlined below.
2. Confirm iOS 18 Version
If your device is indeed compatible, the next step is to ensure that it is running the correct version of iOS 18. It’s worth noting that Genmoji, along with other Apple Intelligence features like Image Playground and ChatGPT Integration, is only available in iOS 18.2 and iPadOS 18.2 Beta versions. Apple is expected to roll out the stable versions of iOS 18.2, iPadOS 18.2, and macOS Sequoia 15.2 soon. So, if you want to use Genmoji immediately, you may need to install the iOS 18.2 beta version.
To check your iOS version, go to Settings -> General -> Software Update. If you’re not on iOS 18.2 Beta, follow the instructions to download and install the beta version. Remember that beta versions can sometimes have bugs, but they are essential for accessing new features that are not yet available in stable releases. By running the latest beta version, you not only get to experience new features like Genmoji but also contribute to improving the software before the official release.
3. Adjust Device Language
Another possible reason why Genmoji might not be working on your device is the language setting. Currently, Apple Intelligence features, including Genmoji, are only available in specific English dialects: English (US), English (Australia), English (Canada), English (Ireland), English (UK), English (New Zealand), and English (South Africa). Therefore, it’s essential to set your device language to one of these supported languages to ensure Genmoji functions correctly.
To change the language on your iPhone or iPad, navigate to Settings -> General -> Language & Region -> Region and select a supported language. If the language setting is the issue, changing it should resolve your problem with Genmoji. In 2025, Apple plans to support additional languages like English (India, Singapore), Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, Vietnamese, and more, making Genmoji more accessible globally.
4. Reboot Your iPhone
Sometimes, the simplest solutions are the most effective. If you’ve verified compatibility, iOS version, and language settings, but Genmoji still isn’t working, a quick reboot might do the trick. A minor software glitch or bug could prevent Genmoji from functioning correctly. Restarting your iPhone or iPad can resolve these minor issues, giving your device a fresh start and potentially getting Genmoji to work.
Rebooting your device is straightforward and can solve various software-related issues. To restart your iPhone, simply press and hold the power button and the volume down button simultaneously until you see the power off slider. Slide to power off, wait a few moments, and then restart your device. This easy step can address any underlying issues causing Genmoji to malfunction. If this doesn’t work, you can proceed to the other methods described below.
5. Add English (US) Keyboard
In some instances, adding the English (US) keyboard can solve the problem of Genmoji not showing up. Some Reddit users have found this method helpful for resolving Genmoji issues on their devices. Adding the English (US) keyboard is a simple process and worth trying if other steps haven’t worked. Here’s how to do it:
On your iPhone or iPad, go to Settings -> General -> Keyboard. Here, tap on Keyboards, and if you don’t see English (US), tap on Add New Keyboard. Search for and add English (US). Finally, hit the Change to English (US) button. This method has been effective for some users in bringing back Genmoji functionality. So, give it a try before exploring more complex fixes.
6. Include Emoji Keyboard
Another basic yet often overlooked step is to ensure that the Emoji keyboard is added to your keyboard list. Usually, the Emoji keyboard is included by default, but it might have been removed accidentally. Since Genmoji is available through the Emoji keyboard, not having it will prevent you from accessing Genmoji features. To add the Emoji keyboard, follow these steps:
On your iPhone or iPad, go to Settings -> General -> Keyboard, and if you don’t see Emoji in the list, tap on Add New Keyboard. Finally, find and add Emoji to the keyboard. By ensuring that the Emoji keyboard is active on your device, you can eliminate another potential reason for Genmoji not working. Once added, test if Genmoji is operational by accessing it through your keyboard. If it still doesn’t work, consider the following methods.
7. Force Close Messages App
Force quitting the Messages app can be another effective solution to fix Genmoji not working on your iPhone or iPad. A glitch might occur when you initially launch the Messages app, which can prevent it from displaying all features, including Genmoji. When you force close and reopen an app, it reinitializes its functionality and can fix minor glitches interfering with normal operations.
To force quit the Messages app, swipe up from the bottom of your screen (if you have a device with Face ID) or double-click the Home button (if you have a device with Touch ID) to open the app switcher. Swipe left or right to find the Messages app, then swipe up on the app preview to close it. After closing the Messages app, reopen it and check if Genmoji is functioning correctly. This method is beneficial if Genmoji becomes unresponsive or disappears intermittently.
8. Reset All Settings
Sometimes, starting fresh can solve the issues you’re experiencing. If none of the other methods have worked, consider resetting all settings on your device. This will not delete your data but will reset settings like Wi-Fi networks, Bluetooth connections, and other preferences. To reset all settings, go to Settings -> General -> Reset -> Reset All Settings.
By following these steps, you can troubleshoot common problems and fully enjoy the creative potential that Genmoji offers for more personalized and expressive communication.
