The redesign is apparent, although perhaps not as striking as one might anticipate. Google’s updated Android 17 emojis introduce a 3D depth effect, supplanting the flatter aesthetic seen in previous Android versions. A recent leak discloses approximately 250 revamped emojis, featuring new facial expressions, animals, food, and beverage icons. Google is anticipated to initially release the new Noto 3D emojis to Pixel devices later this year.
A significant leak has provided a comprehensive preview of the upcoming 3D emojis associated with the Android 17 update arriving later this year. During The Android Show last week, one of the more modest yet surprisingly crucial announcements was Google’s reimagined emojis for Android 17. For years, users have voiced concerns that Android emojis appear flat and lackluster compared to those on iPhones, and it seems Google is finally making an effort to rectify that.
Google disclosed that Android 17 will unveil new 3D emojis named Noto 3D. These fresh emojis offer increased depth and dimensionality, with Google asserting they are crafted to better convey emotions and enhance the “sense of presence.” At The Android Show, Google merely teased a small selection of emojis, but a new leak has since exposed a much more extensive assortment.
The leak was disseminated by RKBDI in a post on X, highlighting around 250 revamped emojis. The visuals showcase new emoji faces alongside various animals, food items, drinks, and more. As illustrated by the leaked images, the new emojis indeed exhibit greater depth and a more 3D-like quality than before, though it’s not a complete overhaul from the previous design.
Google has yet to initiate the rollout or testing of these emojis on Android 17 beta devices, but we expect their arrival in upcoming beta updates relatively soon. However, if you are using the stable version of Android, these redesigned emojis are likely to debut first on Pixel phones later this year, probably coinciding with the Pixel 11 launch period.
Android Central’s Perspective
To be honest, I was hoping for a much bolder redesign, but it seems that’s not the case with Android 17. These leaked emojis surprisingly bear a resemblance to Samsung’s emoji style while still reflecting elements of Google’s earlier Android emojis. They’re certainly an upgrade, but they don’t quite match the quality of Apple’s current offerings.