Emojis are more than just symbols - they have become a language of their own that shapes digital communication around the world. Every year, users eagerly await new emojis that add expressiveness and humor to their chats. But what can you expect from the next generation of emojis? Below we take a look at the latest emoji proposals from the Unicode Consortium, including an exciting highlight for Apple users: the apple stem emoji, which may be available in iMessage from late 2025.
The Unicode Consortium is the organization behind the global management of emoji characters. They decide which new emojis are added and which existing symbols are changed. In November 2024, 164 new emojis were added proposed, and the decision will be made in September 2025. These suggestions include a distorted face, a treasure chest, a trombone and the apple stem emoji, which will delight Apple fans.
Unicode Consortium: The Emoji Makers
The Unicode Consortium and its Emoji Standard & Research Working Group are the driving force behind emojis. Each year they present a list of new emojis or changes to the Unicode Technical Committee based on user requests, cultural trends and societal developments. The latest proposals point to a variety of creatures, objects and emotions that could soon enrich your iPhone communications.
What new emojis await us?
In the Emoji 17.0 working group document, nine of the 164 emojis were highlighted. These include:
- Orca Whale: Symbolizes freedom and strength and may be popular with ocean lovers and environmental activists.
- Bigfoot: A mysterious, hairy creature reminiscent of the legend of Bigfoot – a wink for all who believe in myths and adventure.
- Apple trunk: For Apple fans, this could be the emoji highlight! The apple trunk symbolizes the origin and essence of an apple - suitable for Apple users who want to represent the "core" of their favorite brand.
- Distorted face: Ideal for expressing confusion, shock or discomfort.
- Battle cloud: Reminiscent of classic cartoons, it symbolizes conflict or energetic discussions.
- Other symbols: A landslide, a treasure chest, a trombone and a ballet dancer that supports all five skin tone modifications are also among the suggestions.
Apple and Emojis: A quick update for iOS?
Apple has consistently integrated new emojis into iOS as soon as they're approved, often just months after Unicode officially approves them. If the Emoji 17.0 proposals are approved in September 2025, you could see the new symbols, including the apple-stalk emoji, in iMessage and other Apple apps as early as late 2025 or early 2026. This rapid integration is one reason why Apple users are always on top of emoji trends and regularly discover new ways to liven up their messages.
Why the apple stem emoji?
For many Apple users, the apple core emoji could be a symbol of the Apple brand itself. The apple core represents the origin and the “inside” of the apple and is therefore a perfect allusion to what Apple means to its fans. It could establish itself as a symbol of enthusiasm, loyalty and connection to the Apple brand - and thus have a very special meaning for the Apple community's iMessage communication.
New emojis for more expressiveness: Look forward to the upcoming update
The world of emojis is constantly evolving, and Apple users can look forward to an exciting new selection in iOS. The apple stem emoji, if approved, will no doubt hold a special place for Apple fans. With creative symbols like Bigfoot, the Orca whale, and the battle cloud, there are numerous ways to make your messages unique and express your personality in the digital world. So stay tuned and be ready to discover the newest emojis in late 2025! (Image: Emoji 17 Unicode)
