How to Delete or Duplicate a Custom Memoji in iOS 12

Managing your custom Memoji in iOS 12 allows you to keep your virtual avatars organized, create variations of existing characters, or remove outdated designs. Although iOS features are often managed through the primary device settings, Memoji preferences and options are controlled directly within the Messages app. This guide outlines the straightforward steps required to duplicate or permanently delete any custom Memoji on your iPhone or iPad running iOS 12.

Accessing Memoji Settings

Because there is no dedicated Memoji menu in the main iOS Settings app, you must access your Memoji library via the iMessage app drawer:

1. Open the Messages app on your device.
2. Open an existing conversation or start a new message thread.
3. Tap the Animoji icon (represented by a monkey face) located in the app drawer directly above the keyboard.

How to Duplicate a Custom Memoji

Duplicating is useful when you want to make seasonal changes, try new hairstyles, or add accessories to a character without losing the original version.

1. In the Animoji panel, swipe horizontally through your avatars to select the custom Memoji you want to copy.
2. Tap the three dots (...) button located in the bottom-left corner of the screen.
3. Tap Duplicate from the menu options.
4. The editor will open automatically with your duplicated character. Make any desired changes, then tap Done in the top-right corner to save it as a separate avatar.

How to Delete a Custom Memoji

If you no longer want to keep an avatar, you can remove it permanently from your library.

1. In the Animoji panel, swipe horizontally to locate the custom Memoji you want to remove.
2. Tap the three dots (...) button in the bottom-left corner.
3. Tap Delete from the list of options.
4. Confirm the removal by tapping Delete again when prompted. The avatar will be permanently removed from your device.