How to change emoji on Xiaomi: all the ways from standard to custom

Why to change the emoji to Xiaomi and what to know before you start

Emojis on Xiaomi smartphones are often criticized: some users consider them too “childish”, others – inexpressive compared to their counterparts from Apple or Google. But few know that the system of emojis can be completely remade for yourself – from simple change of style to install unique sets through custom fonts or third-party keyboards.

Before you start making changes, consider three key points: 1) On newer versions of MIUI 14/15 and HyperOS, some methods require unlocking the bootloader or root rights - this voids the warranty. 2) Some applications (for example, Telegram or WhatsApp) can ignore system emojis and show their own. 3) After changing the font, emojis in SMS and messages from recipients with other devices can appear differently - as simple black and white characters or squares.

Method 1: Change the style of emoji through the MIUI settings (no root)

The easiest and safest method is to use the built-in MIUI options. It is suitable for most models (Redmi Note 12, POCO X5, Xiaomi 13T, etc.), but works only on the firmware MIUI 12.5+ and HyperOS. The bottom line is that the system allows you to choose one of three pre-installed styles of emoji:

• 🎨 Standard. MIUI — classic emojis with yellow background and simplified features.
• 🖌️ Google (Noto Color Emoji) – more detailed and realistic, like the Pixel.
• 🍎 Apple (SF Symbols – iOS style, but no animation (requires additional customization).

To change style:

1. Open Settings → Additional → Language and input → Font.
2. Select the Emoji Style item (on some firmware it is hidden - see spoiler below).
3. Slip on your favorite option and restart the phone.

Some regional firmware (Global, EEA) may not have this section. To unlock it: 1) Install MIUI Tweaks from Google Play (requires MIUI 13+). 2 Enable the option to Show hidden settings in the app. 3) Return to Settings → Font - the item will appear.

💡

If the emojis in WhatsApp have not changed after changing their style, clear the app’s cache in Settings → Apps → WhatsApp → Memory → Clear the cache.

Method 2: Install custom font with emoji (Magisk required)

For those who want a completely unique emoji (like the Samsung One UI style, Twitter Twemoji or even Discord), you will need to install custom font through Magisk.This method works on all Xiaomi models (including Redmi 10, POCO F4, Xiaomi 12 Pro), but requires:

• ⚙️ Unlocked bootloader (bootloader unlock).
• 🔓 Installed by Magisk (route rights).
• 📱 Backup of data (risk of “brick» ~1%).

Step-by-step:

1. Download the archive with custom font (recommended) XDA Developers or Telegram Channel MIUI Fonts. Popular options: 🍭 Twemoji – Twitter Style, Bright and Modern. 🤖 JoyPixels – an open analogue of Apple. 📱 One UI Emoji - like the Samsung Galaxy.

.ttf

.zip

MagiskFontManager

Magisk

1. Open Magisk → Modules → “+” → Select the downloaded archive.


2. Reboot the phone.




3. After downloading, open MagiskFontManager and select the set font.

☑️ Preparation for custom font installation

0

Make a backup to Settings → Additional → Backup | Check the Magisk version (should be 25.2+) | Download the font only from trusted sources (XDA, GitHub) | Disable the antivirus (may block installation)

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Installing informal fonts can cause some applications (e.g. banking) to malfunction. Check compatibility on forums before installing.

Method 3: Using third-party keyboards with your own emojis

If you don't want to mess around with system settings, the easiest way to change the emoji is to install an alternative keyboard, which will only show its emoji in the input field, but won't change how it appears in the messages you receive.

To change the keyboard:

1. Install the selected application from Google Play.
2. Go to Settings → System → Language and input → Virtual keyboard.
3. Activate the new keyboard and set it by default.

To completely replace the system emoji, root rights or Magisk will be required.