Google's redesigned 3D emoji library, first introduced on the Pixel 11, is now reportedly reaching older Pixel devices. A Pixel 6a user shared on Reddit that their device's emoji choices had switched from traditional 2D designs to the new 3D versions.
The appearance of 3D emojis on a Pixel 6a suggests Google is slowly expanding the availability of these new designs. However, only one other commenter reported a similar experience, indicating that the rollout is very gradual and not widespread at this time.
The user who received the new Noto 3D emoji set noted that the change occurred after a Google Play Store update. This suggests that the distribution of the new emoji library might be tied to Play Store updates rather than full system updates.
Google plans to replace the standard cartoonish emoji library with 3D designs across all Pixel devices going forward, starting with Android 17. These new designs will introduce subtle differences that long-time Android users may need time to adjust to.
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Google's new 3D emoji library, initially launched with the Pixel 11, is reportedly appearing on older Pixel devices like the Pixel 6a. This suggests a gradual rollout of the updated emoji set beyond the latest Pixel model.