A 10-YEAR-OLD BOY WANTS APPLE TO CANCEL THE “NERD” EMOJI

Have you ever used the “nerd” emoji with the dark glasses and the buck teeth? (You know, the one on Apple iOS?) Well, let me introduce you to Teddy, a 10-year-old from the U.K. who’s on a mission to change it.

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Teddy thinks the current “nerd” emoji is a bit of a downer, especially for those of us who rock glasses. He feels it's insulting and perpetuates the outdated stereotype of what a nerd looks like. And honestly, who needs that kind of negativity? We’ve all seen those movie stereotypes where the “nerd” is portrayed as socially awkward and uncool, and it’s time we moved past that.

Taking a stand like the true visionary he is, Teddy started an online petition to tweak the emoji. His idea? Replace the buck teeth with a friendly smile and rename it the “genius emoji.” Because, let’s face it, wearing glasses is all about seeing the world more clearly. Teddy’s mission is to shift the narrative from a negative to a positive celebration of intelligence and individuality.

The petition might be in its early stages with just 319 signatures the last time we checked, but every movement starts somewhere, right? Teddy even sketched out his vision for the “genius” emoji, and it’s seriously adorable. The drawing features the classic glasses but with a confident smile instead of those exaggerated buck teeth. It's a simple change, but it makes a world of difference in how people who wear glasses are perceived.

As of now, Apple hasn’t responded, but we’re rooting for Teddy. It’s not just about changing an emoji. It’s about challenging stereotypes and celebrating all the individuals out there. Emojis are part of our daily communication, having one that positively represents people who wear glasses would be a step forward.

Emojis are more than just fun images. They reflect our culture and how we see ourselves and others. By supporting Teddy’s cause, we’re not just backing a new emoji design—we’re endorsing a message of inclusivity and respect. And that’s something worth smiling about.