Apple released this Monday (9) the fourth beta version for developers of iOS 26.4, bringing previews of the new emoji options based on the Emoji 17.0 list, recommended by Unicode Consortium. The update includes 163 new designs on the company’s keyboard, with 13 new concepts and 150 skin tone variations for existing emojis. Entre The highlights are representations such as a distorted face, a fighting cloud, a ballet dancer, an orca and a treasure chest, which enrich the expression options in messages and social networks. The release is in the testing phase, and is expected to reach the general public at the end of March or beginning of April.
The new emojis were approved in September 2025 as part of Emoji 17.0, and initial support on the Apple keyboard appeared in iOS 26.4 beta 3, released in early March. Nesta fourth beta, visual designs became available for the first time, allowing developers to see and test completed characters.
New emoji concepts introduced
The beta introduces eight new unique concept emojis in addition to the ballet dancer with full skin tone support. Esses designs follow Unicode standards to ensure cross-platform compatibility.
The distorted face shows a deformed expression, useful for representing shock, anxiety, or vulnerability in conversation. The fight cloud reproduces the classic dust effect seen in cartoons and comics, symbolizing arguments or light fights.
The ballet dancer appears in a gender-neutral version, with varying skin tone options for greater inclusivity. The orca, also known as the killer whale, has a detailed and realistic marine representation.
Additional emoji details
Other new emojis complement the list with different themes. The trombone appears as a wind musical instrument, associated with jazz and melancholic expressions. The treasure chest displays jewelry and coins, ideal for prizes or wealth contexts.
The hairy creature refers to legends such as Bigfoot or yeti, with the appearance of being mythological. The landslide illustrates rocks falling from a cliff, representing natural disasters such as avalanches or erosion.
In addition to these, the update adds skin tone sequences for the emojis of people fighting and people with rabbit ears, expanding the diversity options.
Support and compatibility on iOS
The new emojis are integrated into the iOS system keyboard, iPadOS and other Apple devices compatible with version 26.4. Desenvolvedores access the beta via the official Apple portal, while ordinary users wait for the public version.
The inclusion follows the annual pattern of Unicode updates, ensuring that the characters work in messaging apps, social networks and other services that support the Emoji 17.0 standard. Testes in beta helps fix potential visual inconsistencies before final release.
Expectations for the final release
Apple typically releases final versions of point updates after several rounds of beta, incorporating bug fixes and refinements. The forecast points to widespread availability in the coming weeks, allowing millions of users to access the new features.
These additions strengthen the platform’s emoji library, keeping up with trends in digital expression and maintaining global compatibility.