Can You Use Animoji on FaceTime in iOS 12?

With the release of iOS 12, Apple enabled users to use Animoji and custom Memoji characters directly inside live FaceTime video calls. This feature allows your chosen animated character to replace your face on screen, mirroring your expressions and head movements in real time while you speak. This article explains the hardware requirements and provides the direct steps needed to activate Animoji during a live FaceTime conversation.

Device Requirements

To use Animoji during a FaceTime call, you must have an iOS device equipped with Apple's TrueDepth camera system running iOS 12 or later. Supported devices include:

  • iPhone X
  • iPhone XR
  • iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max
  • 11-inch iPad Pro and 12.9-inch iPad Pro (3rd generation)

Older devices running iOS 12 can view Animoji used by other callers, but they cannot generate them.

How to Use Animoji During a Call

  1. Start a FaceTime Call: Open the FaceTime app and initiate a video call with a contact.
  2. Open Effects: Once the call connects, tap the screen to display the call controls, then tap the Effects button (an icon shaped like a star).
  3. Select Animoji: Tap the Animoji icon (represented by a monkey face) from the bottom app drawer.
  4. Choose a Character: Swipe horizontally through the available Animoji and custom Memoji, then tap the one you want to use. The character will instantly map onto your face.
  5. Resume the Call: Tap the X button above the selector tray to hide the menu while keeping the Animoji active.

To remove the Animoji at any point during the call, tap the Effects button, select the Animoji icon, and tap None (the circle with a slash through it).