Use Memoji as Apple ID Picture in iOS 12

While iOS 12 does not offer a native, built-in setting to select a Memoji directly as your Apple ID profile picture, you can still achieve this look using a simple screenshot workaround. Apple introduced Memoji in iOS 12 exclusively for Messages and FaceTime, reserving direct profile-picture integration for later updates. By capturing your Memoji manually, you can easily save it to your photo library and apply it to your account.

Why iOS 12 Lacks Direct Memoji Integration

Apple introduced customizable Memoji alongside the release of iOS 12 for devices equipped with the TrueDepth camera system (iPhone X and newer). However, the software treats Memoji strictly as an interactive messaging feature. The ability to automatically generate and assign Memoji avatars or custom pose stickers directly to an Apple ID was only introduced in later software updates, such as iOS 13 and iOS 15.

Step-by-Step Workaround to Set a Memoji Profile Picture

To use a Memoji as your Apple ID image in iOS 12, follow these steps to capture and crop your avatar:

  1. Open Messages: Launch the Messages app on your compatible iPhone or iPad and open any conversation.
  2. Access Memoji: Tap the monkey icon (Animoji/Memoji app) above the keyboard and select your custom Memoji.
  3. Choose Your Pose: Look into the camera, make the facial expression or pose you want for your avatar, and hold it steady.
  4. Take a Screenshot: Press the Side button and Volume Up button simultaneously to capture the screen.
  5. Crop the Image: Tap the screenshot preview in the lower-left corner (or open it later in the Photos app). Use the crop tool to tightly frame your Memoji's face into a centered square, then save it to Photos.

Applying the Image to Your Apple ID

Once the image is saved to your camera roll, set it as your account photo:

  1. Open the Settings app on your device.
  2. Tap your Apple ID banner (your name) at the top of the screen.
  3. Tap the circular profile icon or the Edit option beneath your current photo.
  4. Select Choose Photo from the menu.
  5. Navigate to your cropped Memoji image, center it within the circular frame, and tap Choose.

Your Apple ID across your connected services and devices will now display your custom Memoji.