Emoji is a pictogram or smiley embedded in the text and used in electronic messages and on websites. The first pixelated emoji set was created by Shigetaka Kurita in 1999 for cellphones and pagers. They evolved thru time and now we mostly see modern adopted versions of those first icons more commonly edging out the need for words. They are now used in our casual messages, promotional marketing, as prints on clothes, and even as home decor. They are so simple and clear that they are understood no matter the language you speak. An 8 Bit Emoji progress bar for YouTube.