Switch Memoji Characters in One iOS 12 Recording

This guide explains how to switch between different Memoji characters during a single video recording on iOS 12. While Apple’s native Messages recorder restricts you to a single Memoji per 30-second clip, you can bypass this limitation by using the built-in iOS Screen Recording tool to seamlessly swap characters in real time.

The Limitation of the Native Recorder

In iOS 12, tapping the red record button inside the Messages app locks the interface to your selected Memoji or Animoji. The character carousel becomes inaccessible until recording stops, making it impossible to switch characters natively within a single take.

The Screen Recording Workaround

To switch characters continuously without cutting the video, record your screen while interacting with the live Memoji preview.

Step 1: Enable Screen Recording

  1. Open Settings on your iPhone.
  2. Tap Control Center, then select Customize Controls.
  3. Locate Screen Recording under More Controls and tap the green (+) icon to add it to your Control Center.

Step 2: Set Up Audio and Start Recording

  1. Open the Messages app and open any conversation thread.
  2. Tap the App Store icon next to the text field, then tap the Animoji (monkey) icon to open the character tray.
  3. Swipe down from the top-right corner of the screen (on iPhone X or newer) to open the Control Center.
  4. Press and hold (or 3D Touch) the Screen Recording icon.
  5. Tap the Microphone icon to turn it On so your voice is captured.
  6. Tap Start Recording. A three-second countdown will begin.

Step 3: Perform and Switch Characters

  1. Dismiss the Control Center to return to the Messages app.
  2. Align your face with the TrueDepth camera and perform your lines using your first Memoji.
  3. When you are ready to switch, tap any other Memoji or Animoji in the horizontal selection tray at the bottom of the screen. The new character will instantly track your face without interrupting the video.
  4. Continue switching between as many characters as you need.

Step 4: Stop and Edit the Video

  1. Tap the red recording indicator in the top-left corner of the status bar and tap Stop.
  2. Open the Photos app and select your newly saved screen recording.
  3. Tap Edit in the top-right corner to trim the beginning and end of the clip, removing the parts where you opened the Control Center.