Google has begun distributing its updated Noto 3D emoji to more Android devices after initially limiting them to the Pixel 11. The company first introduced the three-dimensional redesign in May 2026, refreshing the appearance of its Noto collection. Following exclusive availability on the Pixel 11, Google stated in September that the assets would reach partner manufacturers and native Google apps. Recent user reports suggest this expansion is underway.
Evidence of the expansion surfaced when a Reddit user reported seeing the revised graphics on their phone, though the post did not identify the exact device model. The user noted that the new emoji arrived via an operating system update, while the standalone Gboard app showed no separate update. Independent checks across several Pixel test devices did not show the updated emoji. In one instance, testers examined a Pixel 9 running the Android 17 QPR2 beta and observed that it still displayed the older 2D graphics. This variance indicates that Google is releasing the update in stages across eligible hardware, leaving the exact timeline for older Pixel models uncertain.
Google confirmed in September that Noto 3D emoji support will reach devices from a collection of partner brands. In addition to Google apps, the company announced that phones from the following manufacturers are scheduled to receive the updated emoji:
Google has not published a detailed schedule for each partner, which means eligible users must wait for specific manufacturer announcements to learn when their devices will update.
Distinguishing the 3D redesign from the previous 2D designs can be difficult during everyday use. For users seeking a direct comparison, Google hosts side-by-side examples of the 2D and 3D versions on its GitHub repository. Google spent development time adapting the artwork for diverse viewing conditions, specifically accounting for visibility on dark backgrounds and ensuring the glyphs stay recognizable even when shrunken down to small text sizes. Even though questions remain about when every eligible Pixel or partner phone will receive the new files, the wider rollout brings the updated visual style to more users.
Google Pixel Watch 5 (45mm)
Luiza Mosneagu is Reviews Editor at Droid Tools. A psychologist by training and tech writer by passion, she has tested over 60 Android devices since 2020 - always for a minimum of two weeks before writing a word. Her focus is camera quality, everyday usability, and cutting through marketing claims to tell you what a device is actually like to live with.
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