Apple has unveiled eight new emoji that will arrive on iPhones with the upcoming iOS 26.4 software update, currently in beta testing.

The additions are based on the Unicode 17.0 emoji standard, which was released on September 9, 2025. While the Unicode Consortium defines the concepts for new emoji, technology companies such as Apple design their own visual versions before rolling them out to users.

The update follows the recent release of iOS 26.3.1, a maintenance patch addressing software bugs. Apple is now preparing the next update, which introduces several new features alongside the latest emoji designs.

Among the new icons is “Distorted Face”, an expressive design featuring a fish-eye effect that exaggerates facial proportions, giving the character wide eyes and a surprised expression. Another addition is “Fight Cloud”, inspired by cartoon-style scuffles where a swirling cloud represents a chaotic brawl.

The update also includes a “Ballet Dancer” emoji showing a performer balancing on one foot, as well as an “Orca” representing the killer whale. Apple is also adding a “Hairy Creature”, commonly associated with the Bigfoot myth, as part of the new collection.

Additional symbols include a “Trombone”, expanding the range of musical instrument emoji available to users. The list also features “Landslide”, illustrated as a large rock with falling stones, and a “Treasure Chest” emoji that depicts an open chest filled with gold coins, jewels and a crown.

These emoji are Apple’s interpretations of the Unicode 17 standard. Other companies have already introduced their own versions of the same set. Google, for example, released its Unicode 17 emoji designs on the day the standard was announced.

Unless Apple delays their release to a later update such as iOS 26.5, the new emoji are expected to arrive with iOS 26.4 once the beta testing period concludes. While Apple has not confirmed an exact launch date, the update could appear before April based on previous software release timelines.