We checked the following list on October 28, 2026 in the official Unicode table. The names are editorial translations; the English short name and the code point help with precise identification. Source: Emoji Recently Added, v18.0
The nine new base characters
| Emoji | Name | Official English short name | Code point |
|---|---|---|---|
| | Cracking face | cracking face | U+1FAEB |
| | Leftwards thumb sign | leftwards thumb sign | U+1FAF9 |
| | Rightwards thumb sign | rightwards thumb sign | U+1FAFA |
| | Monarch butterfly | monarch butterfly | U+1FACC |
| | Pickle | pickle | U+1FADD |
| | Lighthouse | lighthouse | U+1F6D9 |
| | Meteor | meteor | U+1FA8B |
| | Eraser | eraser | U+1FA8C |
| | Net with handle | net with handle | U+1FA8D |
If you see squares in the first column of the table, you can still identify the symbols by their names and code points. This may depend on the support of your own display environment.
Why does it appear as nine in one instance and nineteen in another?
The two numbers count different things. The nine is the number of new base characters. The nineteen includes the ten skin-tone series belonging to the two hand signs: 9 + 5 + 5 = 19. Therefore, when reading news of the type "number of new emojis," always check whether it refers to base characters or the set including variants.
The same caution is required when comparing the complete emoji sets. Two databases may group variants differently. Therefore, do not decide which interface is newer or more complete based solely on the raw count. First, check the version used and the method of counting.
When can you use the new symbols?
Usage consists of three separate steps:
- Accepted: the symbol appears on the official Unicode list.
- Insertable: you can copy the character, or the keyboard offers it.
- Displayable: the recipient's system draws the desired shape.
Successful copying only confirms the second step. A square may still appear on the recipient's display.
An availability date for a specific phone or app can be given based on the manufacturer’s current release information. You cannot infer such a date from the Unicode list. The Android documentation also discusses app support and the correct display of newer emojis separately. Source: Android Developers
For example, next to the new lighthouse, you can write: "We will meet at the lighthouse next to the harbor. " The location remains understandable even if the drawing is missing. In published material, the reader can later identify the novelty based on the textual name and code point.
How does an idea become an official emoji?
The Unicode proposal process requires documented justification and sample images. The criteria include expected usage, recognizability, and how much the idea adds new possibilities to the existing set. A custom drawing or community popularity alone does not guarantee acceptance. Source: Unicode, Guidelines for Submitting Emoji Proposals
According to the information checked on October 28, 2026, the submission of proposals will reopen in 2027. Before submitting, check the official page, as the date and conditions may change.
An "emoji coming soon" circulating on a social network may be an idea, a preliminary candidate, or an already accepted novelty. Look for the version and the official list alongside the name. If only a mockup is available, use this status in your own communication as well.
How to check for freshness
Check the source date, version number, and acceptance status. Then try the symbol in your own application. If important, ask the recipient for simple feedback on what they see. A "works for me" result means a successful test in a specific environment.
You can also use the emoji search to select a usable symbol. The new form helps when it fits the message and is clearly understood by the recipient.
Take the essence with you
Three-question knowledge quiz
Try how you would apply what you read. Mark one answer per question; every correct answer is worth one point. The evaluation provides feedback for these three situations; we do not store or send your answers.
Count the nine base characters and the ten variants, then check what you see on your own device.
Count the nine base characters and the ten variants, then check what you see on your own device.
Review the list or usage step associated with the incorrect answer.
In the three examples, you treated the count and support separately; try out a new symbol.
Solutions and explanations
- Five skin-tone variants are added to each of the two hand signs, in addition to the nine base characters. Ten skin-tone series are added to the nine base characters.
- You check the support of the recipient's system and application. Displaying a character included in the standard also requires support from the receiving environment.
- The official list, the version, and the date of verification. The official status distinguishes between an idea, a candidate, and an accepted novelty.
Count your correct answers: each is worth one point. A skipped answer is worth zero points.
- 3 points: In the three examples, you treated the count and support separately; try out a new symbol.
- 2 points: Review the list or usage step associated with the incorrect answer.
- 0–1 points: Count the nine base characters and the ten variants, then check what you see on your own device.
