How to Preview Memoji Expressions in iOS 12

Apple introduced Memoji in iOS 12, allowing users to create fully customizable 3D avatars that mimic their facial movements using the TrueDepth camera system. Before capturing a video message to send to friends or family, you can test and view how your Memoji reflects your facial expressions in real-time. This guide explains the exact steps required to preview your custom Memoji expressions prior to recording on a compatible iPhone or iPad.

Requirements

To use and preview Memoji in iOS 12, you need an Apple device equipped with a TrueDepth camera running iOS 12 (iPhone X, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, or compatible iPad Pro models).

Steps to Preview Memoji Expressions

  1. Open Messages: Launch the Messages app on your device and tap an existing conversation or start a new one.
  2. Open the Animoji App: Tap the App Store icon next to the text input field to reveal the app drawer, then tap the Animoji icon (represented by a monkey face).
  3. Select Your Memoji: Swipe through the carousel of characters to locate and tap your custom-created Memoji.
  4. Align Your Face: Position your face directly in front of the front-facing camera. Ensure your face is well-lit and not obstructed.
  5. Preview in Real Time: Simply move your face without tapping the red record button. The Memoji will automatically track and mirror your movements on the screen in real time. You can blink, smile, raise your eyebrows, turn your head, or stick out your tongue to see how accurately the avatar captures each expression.
  6. Expand the Preview Window (Optional): To see a larger, more detailed preview of your expressions, tap the small horizontal bar above the Memoji tray and drag it upward to enter full-screen mode.

Once you are satisfied with how your expressions appear on the avatar, you can tap the red record button in the bottom-right corner to capture up to a 30-second video message.