Animoji and Memoji Video Length Limit in iOS 12

This article covers the maximum recording time allowed for Animoji and Memoji videos in Apple's iOS 12 update. It details the specific duration limit, how it compares to earlier software versions, and an alternative method for users who need to capture longer animated clips.

In iOS 12, the maximum recording length for an Animoji or Memoji video is 30 seconds.

Apple expanded this limit alongside the introduction of Memoji and new Animoji characters. In the previous version, iOS 11, recordings were capped at just 10 seconds. The 30-second window applies to messages recorded directly within the Messages app on compatible devices featuring the TrueDepth camera system (iPhone X, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR).

How to Record a 30-Second Clip

  1. Open the Messages app and select an existing conversation or start a new one.
  2. Tap the Animoji (monkey) icon in the app drawer above the keyboard.
  3. Swipe to select your preferred Animoji or custom Memoji.
  4. Tap the red Record button in the bottom-right corner to begin.
  5. A timer will track your progress up to the 30-second limit. Tap the stop button to finish early, or let the timer run out automatically.
  6. Tap the blue arrow to send the clip as an audio/video message.

Workaround for Longer Recordings

If you need to record an Animoji or Memoji for longer than 30 seconds, you can bypass the native limit using the built-in iOS Screen Recording tool:

  1. Enable Screen Recording by going to Settings > Control Center > Customize Controls, then adding Screen Recording.
  2. Open the Messages app, launch the Animoji or Memoji camera, and swipe down from the top-right corner to open Control Center.
  3. Long-press the Screen Recording icon, turn on the microphone, and start recording.
  4. Interact with the Animoji as long as needed, then stop the screen recording. The resulting video can be trimmed in the Photos app to remove the interface elements.