How do new emojis get added?

In one line

The rule

"Emojis are approved and managed by the Unicode Consortium, which sets the standard for text and symbols across all devices."

There is no formula, but the process is official and follows set steps.

Let's understand it simply

Imagine you want a new emoji, like a cricket bat. You can't just draw it and expect everyone in the world to see it on their phones. There is a team, like the umpires in cricket, who decide which emojis are allowed. This team is called the Unicode Consortium (a group of tech companies and experts). People send them ideas for new emojis. If the team agrees, they make sure the emoji works on all phones and computers.

How it works

1. Anyone can suggest a new emoji by sending a proposal to Unicode.
2. The proposal must explain why the emoji is needed, how it will be used, and show sample pictures.
3. Unicode reviews all proposals once a year.
4. If they approve, they add the emoji to the official Unicode list.
5. Phone and computer companies (like Apple, Google) update their software to include the new emoji.
6. After updates, everyone can use the new emoji in messages and apps.

The story behind it

The Unicode Consortium started in 1991 to make sure all computers could use the same letters and symbols. Emojis began in Japan in the late 1990s. As emojis became popular worldwide, Unicode took charge of making sure everyone could use the same emojis, no matter which phone or app they used.

Where you see it in real life

• WhatsApp: When you send a new emoji, both you and your friend see the same symbol because Unicode made it standard.
• Instagram: New emojis appear after a phone update, showing Unicode's work.
• Cricket World Cup: A cricket bat emoji was added, so fans everywhere could use it.
• Food: Indian foods like samosa and dosa have been added as emojis after people requested them.
• Festivals: Diya lamp emoji for Diwali was added after many requests.

Why it matters

• Makes chatting more fun and expressive.
• Helps people from different countries share their culture (like Indian food or festivals).
• Ensures everyone, everywhere, sees the same emoji.
• Used in exams and projects about technology and communication.

Common mistakes

• Thinking anyone can just add an emoji instantly — it must be approved by Unicode.
• Believing emojis look the same on all devices — each company designs its own style, but the meaning is the same.
• Not updating your phone — you won't see new emojis until you update.

Remember it

Unicode is the umpire for emojis — they decide which ones can play on everyone's phone.