Do you like Google’s new 3D emoji designs for Pixel and Android 17? [Poll]

Ben Schoon | May 15 2026 - 5:15 am PT

While Android 17 itself wasn’t really a focus of “The Android Show” earlier this week, we did hear about a few new changes coming. One of those changes includes a redesigned 3D emoji set coming to Android 17 starting on Google Pixel phones. What do you think of the new look?

Arriving “later this year” starting on Pixel phones, Google’s latest emoji design takes the 2D Noto look that’s been built out over the past several years and gives everything a 3D look with more depth and texture.

Google explains:

Our feelings have weight, but they often fall flat when expressed online. These 3D emoji bring a touch of physicality to these moments and help you overcome this digital divide. It’s the difference between a message received and a presence felt.

The core designs are, in many cases, not changing very much. Looking at some of the beloved emoji – like everyone’s favorite turtle – the overall look is familiar, just with a 3D look. Others are bigger evolutions, such as the sunset emoji.

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Personally, my initial reaction wasn’t really in favor of the change – I’m still not a huge fan.

I came to like the 2D aesthetic Google had developed largely because it was unique and fun. I can’t quite put my finger on why, but this new look just doesn’t invoke the same feeling for me. I’ve basically come around to feeling like these are “fine, but I’m going to complain the whole time” – which I guess has been my overall opinion of Google’s emoji since the blobs died.

But what about you?

Do you like Google’s new 3D emoji design? Vote in the poll below and let us know what you think in the comments.