In this guide you will learn how to set an avatar on an iPhone or iPad using Apple’s Memoji system.
Before you start: An iPhone or iPad running iOS 13 or later, and for animated Memoji or FaceTime effects, a device with Face ID.
Step‑by‑step guide to setting a Memoji avatar
Follow the sections below to create, send, and apply your Memoji across Messages, FaceTime, and contacts.
Method 1: Creating a Memoji
- Start by opening a conversation in the Messages app.
- Tap the + button to the left of the text field.
- Select More from the menu that appears.
- Choose Memoji from the list of options.
- Tap + New Memoji. If this is your first time, tap Continue first.
- Customize your Memoji by adjusting skin, hairstyle, facial features, clothing, and body. Each change updates a live preview.
- When satisfied, tap Done in the top‑right corner to save the Memoji.
Method 2: Sending Memoji stickers
- Open a conversation in the Messages app.
- Tap the + button next to the text field.
- Select Stickers from the options.
- Open the Memoji tab (the icon looks like a default Memoji avatar).
- Choose the Memoji you want, then scroll through the sticker collection and tap the desired sticker.
- Tap the send arrow to deliver the sticker.
Method 3: Sending animated Memoji messages
- Open a conversation in the Messages app.
- Tap the + button, then More, and finally Memoji.
- Select the Memoji you wish to animate.
- Tap the record button and speak; the Memoji mirrors your facial movements.
- Record up to 30 seconds. To redo, tap the trashcan icon to delete the current recording and press record again.
- Tap the send arrow to send the animated message.
- For a full list of compatible devices, see the Apple website.
Method 4: Using Memoji in FaceTime
- Start a FaceTime call with the camera on.
- Tap the Effects button (a grey flower icon).
- Select the desired Memoji from the top of the list.
- The Memoji appears instantly and tracks your face and body movements.
- To remove it without ending the call, tap Effects again and select the Memoji a.
- For supported device details, visit the Apple website.
Method 5: Changing your contact photo
- Open the Contacts app and tap My Card at the top.
- Tap Edit in the top‑right corner.
- Select Edit beneath your profile picture to open customization options.
- Choose Customize, then Contact Photo, and finally Choose a Different Photo (or Add if none exists).
- Tap the Memoji option (green icon) and pick a pose.
- Adjust position and scale, then tap Next followed by Choose to apply the Memoji as your contact photo.
Pro tip: Save your favorite Memoji poses in the Memoji app for quick access when messaging or video chatting.
Explore the different Memoji styles and experiment with custom accessories to make your avatar truly unique. You can also share your creations with friends by sending stickers or animated messages.
Consider using your new Memoji as a contact photo across all Apple services, such as iMessage, FaceTime, and even your Apple ID, for a consistent personal brand.
