Say Goodbye To This Controversial Emoji
Apple just released information regarding their next update scheduled for later this year. Apple’s annual emoji update always brings an exciting mix of new messaging options into play. Last year saw the introduction of the popular taco emoji, and the infamous middle finger emoji. This year will be no different with numerous changes and additions to Apple’s catalog of emoji.
One change that hasn’t gone unnoticed is the removal of the gun emoji. To replace it, the new emoji update will include a neon green squirt gun. As if that wasn’t enough, Apple has fitted the muzzle with a bright orange tip, a secondary identifier that ‘this is not a gun’.
The removal bows to increased calls for gun control around the nation. With each mass shooting, increasing numbers of people have taken to social media in an effort to voice concern over a lack of gun safety laws. A Twitter campaign using the hashtag #disarmtheiphone has advocated the removal this past year with followers encouraged to tweet their support to Apple CEO Tim Cook.
#guncontrol Banning guns is not enough! Virtual violence must also be stopped! #DisarmTheiPhone pic.twitter.com/oLmiGuT1pt
— NorBdelta (@NorBdelta) January 5, 2016
Apple’s decision to remove the gun emoji has received some criticism, but is a big victory for gun control activists. By increasing awareness they hope to show congress that gun control laws are both acceptable and necessary.
The list of 100+ new emoji looks to increase gender diversity and provide users with options that better describe them. A sneak peek at the list shows a number of women in sports, as well as emoji options for single parents. In addition the much requested rainbow flag will soon be available for messaging use.
