
After previewing new emoji this summer, Apple released nearly 60 new characters on Monday, many with a focus on inclusion and diversity. The iOS 13.2 software update features interracial* couples, gender-neutral characters and disability-themed emoji options, including a seeing-eye dog*, characters in wheelchairs and prosthetic limbs. Other new emoji include a waffle, butter, a sloth and a yawning smiley face. In recent years, Apple has been on a push to offer more diverse emoji, such as different skin tones, occupations and flags. In March 2018, the tech giant requested more emoji that were inclusive of disability in a proposal sent to the Unicode Consortium — the nonprofit organization that sets the global standard for emoji. “Currently, emoji provide a wide range of options, but may not represent the experiences of those with disabilities,” Apple wrote at the time. “Diversifying the options available helps fill a significant gap and provides a more inclusive experience for all.” The iPhone maker said it had consulted with top organizations for people with disabilities when submitting the proposal. Beyond emoji, iOS 13.2 adds a “deep fusion” camera mode to the iPhone 11 and 11 Pro — a tool that uses artificial intelligence to improve image quality.(SD-Agencies) |