One of the key elements that enhance Instagram communication is emojis. Whether in captions, comments, or direct messages, emojis add personality, emotion, and fun to conversations. They help convey tone, emphasize messages, and make content more relatable.
But did you know that you can change the emoji style on Instagram to match your preference? From classic designs to modern aesthetics, switching emoji styles can add a personal touch to your experience. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to change emoji styles on Instagram, ensuring your messages reflect your unique style.
Understanding Emoji Styles on Instagram
Instagram does not have its own custom emoji set. Instead, the platform relies on the default emoji style of your device’s operating system. This means that the emojis you see on Instagram vary depending on whether you’re using:
- Apple (iOS): Rounded, glossy, and detailed emojis commonly used across iPhones and iPads.
- Android (Google): Flat and colorful emojis with a slightly different design than Apple’s.
- Samsung: Samsung devices have their own distinct emoji style, often differing from standard Android ones.
- Other Systems (Windows, Web, etc.): Instagram adapts to the default emoji set used by the web browser or operating system.
Why Instagram Uses Device-Based Emoji Styles
Instagram’s reliance on system emojis ensures compatibility across all devices. Instead of designing its own emoji set, Instagram automatically pulls the emoji style that matches your phone’s software. This means:
- iPhone users will always see Apple emojis, even when interacting with Android users.
- Android users will see Google’s emojis, even if an iPhone user sent them.
- There may be slight differences in emoji appearance when chatting across different platforms.
Can You Change Emoji Styles on Instagram?
While Instagram does not provide built-in customization options for emojis, you can change the way they appear using:
- Keyboard Apps: Third-party keyboards like Gboard or SwiftKey allow you to select different emoji styles.
- Software Updates: Updating your device’s OS can introduce new emojis or design changes.
- Instagram’s Chat Themes: Although chat themes won’t change emoji styles completely, they may alter the color and aesthetic of message reactions.
However, limitations exist—you cannot switch to another platform’s emojis unless you modify your device settings or use a third-party workaround.
Step-by-Step Guide to Change Emoji Style in Instagram
For iOS Users
Step 1: Update your iPhone to the latest iOS version to access the newest emoji styles.
Step 2: Navigate to Settings > General > Keyboard > Keyboards.
Step 3: Tap “Add New Keyboard” and select a third-party keyboard like Gboard or SwiftKey, which offer customizable emoji styles.
Step 4: Open Instagram, switch to the newly installed keyboard, and start using the updated emoji style in captions, comments, or DMs.
Note: Apple restricts third-party keyboards from completely changing the default emoji appearance, so results may vary.
For Android Users
Step 1: Download and install a third-party keyboard app like Gboard, SwiftKey, or Emoji Switcher from the Play Store.
Step 2: Open the keyboard app’s settings and customize the emoji style (some keyboards let you switch to Twitter, Facebook, or older Android emoji sets).
Step 3: Go to Settings > System > Languages & Input > Virtual Keyboard, then select the new keyboard as the default.
Step 4: Open Instagram and use the updated emoji style in your posts, comments, and messages.
Pro Tip: Some Android devices allow deeper customization through rooting, but this is not recommended for casual users due to security risks.
Using Instagram’s Built-in Emoji Picker
Where to Find It: When typing a caption, comment, or DM, tap the emoji icon on your keyboard. This will bring up the system’s emoji picker.
Skin Tone & Gender Variations: Instagram supports emoji customization, allowing users to select different skin tones and gender-inclusive emojis by long-pressing an emoji.
Message Reactions: In Instagram DMs, you can react to messages using emojis. Tap and hold a message, then choose an emoji from the reaction menu.
Tips for Using Emojis Effectively on Instagram
1. Enhance Captions for Better Engagement
Emojis add personality and emotion to your captions, making them more engaging. Here’s how to use them effectively:
Highlight key points – Use emojis to break up text and draw attention to important words.
Set the tone – A single emoji can change the entire feel of your post (🔥 for excitement, 💡 for ideas, ❤️ for appreciation).
Encourage interaction – Use call-to-action emojis like 👇 (pointing down) to direct attention to a link or comment section.
Example:
❌ Check out our new summer collection.
✅ ☀️ Check out our new Summer Collection – available now! 🌴✨
2. Get Creative with Emoji Storytelling & Branding
You can create mini-stories or reinforce your brand identity using emojis:
Emoji Sequences: Tell a short story using a series of emojis (e.g., ✈️🏖️🍹 for a vacation vibe).
Brand Aesthetic: Stick to a color scheme in your emojis that matches your brand (e.g., a bakery using 🍞🥐🍰).
Custom Hashtags & Emoji Combos: Pair emojis with branded hashtags to make them stand out (e.g., #GlowUp💡 for a beauty brand).
3. Use Instagram’s Stickers & GIFs for Extra Expression
Beyond emojis, Instagram offers stickers and GIFs in Stories and DMs for even more engaging content:
Animated Reactions: Use GIFs to emphasize emotions that emojis alone can’t express.
Location & Hashtag Stickers: Combine with emojis to enhance visibility and reach.
Polls & Questions: Add emojis to interactive elements to make them visually appealing.
Conclusion
Personalizing your emoji style on Instagram adds a unique touch to your interactions, making your captions, comments, and DMs more expressive and engaging. Since Instagram relies on your device’s operating system for emojis, exploring third-party keyboards and system updates can help you find a style that best suits your personality.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different emoji styles, creative combinations, and Instagram’s interactive features like stickers and GIFs. Whether you’re using emojis for storytelling, branding, or just for fun, they can significantly enhance your engagement and audience connection.
Now it’s your turn! Share your favorite emoji combinations in the comments or drop any questions you have about customizing emojis on Instagram. Let’s make our conversations more colorful and expressive!