How to Use Emojis on a Mac

Insert emojis in messages, documents and browser fields on macOS.

Quick steps

Place the cursor in an editable text field.
Press Control, Command and Space together.
Search by name or browse the available groups.
Click the emoji you want to insert.

Using emojis clearly

Choose an emoji that supports the words around it rather than asking the symbol to carry the complete meaning. Familiar faces, hearts and simple objects are generally easy to understand, while less common symbols can change tone between communities and conversations.

Some Mac keyboards also offer a globe or function key shortcut. The Character Viewer can remain open while you add several symbols to the same document.

Copying from Emoji Kit

Search Emoji Kit by name, feeling, object or category, then open an emoji and use the copy button. Return to the destination app and paste it where the cursor is positioned. The copied character is Unicode text, so it can be edited, moved and deleted like other text.

You can also save favourite emojis in this browser and revisit recently copied characters. These lists stay on the device and do not require an account.

Why emojis sometimes look different

Apple, Google, Microsoft, Samsung and individual applications can draw the same Unicode emoji in different styles. Colour, facial details and spacing may vary even though the underlying character is identical. Check a sensitive or important message in the app where it will be published, and use clear accompanying words whenever interpretation matters.

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