Mastering the Bitmoji keyboard lets you turn everyday messages into playful, personalized expressions. This guide walks you through setup, customization, and smart troubleshooting so you can use Bitmoji confidently on any chat.
From installing the app keyboard to sending unique avatars in Snapchat and other supported apps, you will learn the essentials in a few clear steps.
| Platform | Key Action | Result | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| iOS | Install Bitmoji app, open Settings → General → Keyboard → Add New Keyboard | Bitmoji keyboard appears in the keyboard list | Enable Full Access if you want sticker sending |
| Android | Install Bitmoji app, go to Settings → System → Languages & input → Virtual keyboard → Manage keyboards | Bitmoji keyboard shows as selectable input method | Allow on-screen permissions for reliable switching |
| Snapchat | Link your Snapchat account inside the Bitmoji app | Custom Bitmoji appear in chat and Stories | Keep Snapchat and Bitmoji accounts aligned |
| Third-party apps | Switch to Bitmoji keyboard in any text field | Personal stickers and poses insert directly | Some apps may limit third-party keyboard features |
Install and Enable Bitmoji Keyboard
Installing and enabling the Bitmoji keyboard is the foundation for using personalized avatars everywhere you type.
On iOS, download the Bitmoji app from the App Store, open the app to create or log into your avatar, then go to Settings → General → Keyboard → Add New Keyboard and select Bitmoji. On Android, install the app, open it, and then in Settings → System → Languages & input → Virtual keyboard → Manage keyboards toggle Bitmoji on.
Customize Your Bitmoji Avatar
Adjust appearance and style
The Bitmoji app offers detailed sliders for face shape, skin tone, hairstyle, and outfits, so your avatar reflects your real look or a fun alter ego.
Spend time exploring options such as eye shape, accessories, and backgrounds, because these details make your stickers instantly recognizable in chats.
Connect Bitmoji with Snapchat
Link accounts for in-app stickers
Inside the Bitmoji app, tap Settings → Connect Snapchat, log into your Snapchat, and confirm the connection so your avatars work natively in Snapchat chats and Stories.
Once linked, you can send Bitmoji as stickers directly in Snapchat, add Bitmoji to Snaps, and keep your friend reactions consistent with your personalized style.
Use Bitmoji in Other Apps
Enable third-party keyboard access
In Android settings, navigate to System → Languages & input → Virtual keyboard → Manage keyboards and confirm Bitmoji is enabled so it can be selected in messaging apps like WhatsApp, Slack, or Instagram.
When you open a chat in one of these apps, tap the globe or emoji icon to switch to the Bitmoji keyboard and insert stickers right alongside standard text.
Best Practices and Key Takeaways
- Install the Bitmoji app before adding the keyboard to streamline the linking process.
- Enable full access only on trusted devices if you want advanced features like direct sticker sending.
- Test your avatar in Snapchat first to confirm the face mapping looks correct before using it widely.
- Switch back to your main keyboard in long typing sessions to keep punctuation and autocorrect accurate.
- Keep the Bitmoji app updated to benefit from new poses, styles, and improved keyboard performance.
FAQ
Reader questions
Why are my Bitmoji not showing up in some apps?
Some apps restrict third-party keyboards for security or simplicity; try copying the Bitmoji image and pasting it, or check the app’s permissions and keyboard settings.
How do I update my Bitmoji keyboard after changing my avatar?
Reopen the Bitmoji app to sync your latest avatar, and ensure the keyboard is set as active; in some cases, fully close and reopen your messaging app to refresh the sticker tray.
Can I use Bitmoji without enabling full access?
You can insert basic Bitmoji stickers without full access, but enabling full access allows richer features such as sending stickers directly and accessing the full collection.
Will switching keyboards affect my predictive text or default emojis?
Your device remembers separate keyboard settings, so toggling to Bitmoji briefly pauses predictive suggestions for that input; switching back restores your primary keyboard layout.