Add Stickers to Video in iOS 12 Messages

Apple's iOS 12 introduced integrated camera effects within the Messages app, allowing users to place live stickers directly onto video frames before and during recording. This feature relies on real-time tracking to lock stickers onto faces and objects, making digital elements move dynamically with the video subject. Below is an explanation of the underlying technology and the exact steps required to use stickers in your Messages videos.

How the Feature Works

iOS 12 incorporates augmented reality tracking features derived from Apple's ARKit and Vision frameworks directly into the Messages camera interface. When you open the Messages camera and select the Effects menu, the device begins scanning the live viewfinder feed for faces, geometric planes, and movement.

When you drag a sticker onto a detected face or subject, iOS assigns an anchor point to that object. As the subject moves, turns, or changes distance from the lens, the sticker scales and rotates accordingly to remain pinned to that specific coordinate throughout the video recording. If placed in an open area, the sticker acts as a static overlay anchored to that region of the frame.

Steps to Stick Stickers onto Video Frames

  1. Open Messages: Launch the Messages app on an iOS 12-compatible device and open an existing chat or start a new thread.
  2. Launch the In-App Camera: Tap the Camera icon situated immediately to the left of the iMessage text input field.
  3. Switch to Video: Swipe across the capture modes at the bottom of the screen to select Video.
  4. Access Effects: Tap the star-shaped Effects icon located in the bottom-left corner of the viewfinder.
  5. Choose a Sticker: Browse the horizontal tray and select an iMessage sticker app, Activity badge, or Memoji/Animoji sticker pack.
  6. Place and Scale: Touch and drag the chosen sticker directly onto the camera preview screen. Use two fingers to pinch, resize, or rotate the sticker. If you drop it onto a face, it will automatically snap into place and track facial movements.
  7. Record and Send: Tap the red shutter button to record your video. The sticker will stay tracked to the subject while recording. Tap the shutter again to stop, review the clip, and tap the blue Send arrow to deliver it.