The wait for the latest batch of expressive icons is almost over, with the new Unicode 15.1 and Emoji 15.1 update rolling out to Gboard beta users on Google Pixel devices.
The Unicode Consortium unveiled version 15.1 of the Unicode standard in September 2023, marking a minor progression from the previous year’s Unicode 15.0. The key highlight of this update was the incorporation of 118 new emojis, including six entirely novel additions. Among the fresh faces in the emoji lineup were representations of shaking and nodding heads, a majestic phoenix, a zesty lime, a delectable brown mushroom, and a symbolic broken chain.
While the full Unicode 15.1 update isn’t expected to reach stable Gboard channels until later in 2024, this beta release on Pixel phones offers an early glimpse of the fun new ways we’ll be able to communicate. As of now, the new emojis are only showing up for Gboard beta users on Pixel phones. If you have a Pixel and are enrolled in the beta program, head over to your Gboard app to see if they’ve arrived. Below is a screengrab of the new emojis on a Pixel phone.
While the six new emojis are the most exciting additions in the latest Gboard beta, Unicode 15.1 also includes a variety of other new characters, from additional animals and food items to gender-neutral options and accessibility symbols. The full Unicode 15.1 update, including the new emojis, is expected to reach all Gboard users via the stable channel later in 2024.
If you’re not part of the Gboard beta program, you can become a tester by following this Google Play Store link and join to enjoy the new emojis and other new features ahead of the rest.
Meanwhile, Google is also rolling out Assistant voice typing on Gboard with a dedicated toolbar for Pixel Tablet users.
Hillary Keverenge
2122 Posts
Tech has been my playground for over a decade. While the Android journey began early, it truly took flight with the revolutionary Lollipop update. Since then, it's been a parade of Android devices (with a sprinkle of iOS), culminating in a mostly happy marriage with Google's smart home ecosystem. Expect insightful articles and explorations of the ever-evolving world of Android and Google products coupled with occasional rants on the Nest smart home ecosystem.
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