U+FE0B "" Variation Selector-12 Unicode Character

Unicode Version 18.0

U+FE0B "" Variation Selector-12 is a special invisible formatting mark used to request an alternative glyph for a preceding emoji character, specifically instructing rendering systems to display it in a monochrome or uncolored style rather than in a full color, multicolored, or gradient treatment. It belongs to the Variation Selectors block and is officially designated as the Emoji Variation Sequence (EVS) for “emoji color subcategory override,” though in practice it is rarely supported by major platforms. When placed directly after a base emoji, it signals to compatible software that the emoji should be presented in a simple, textual, or outline form, similar to a black and white icon. This selector is primarily intended for use in environments where precise control over emoji appearance is needed, such as in technical documentation or design systems that require consistent monochrome rendering.

General Properties

Code Point
U+FE0B
Name
Variation Selector-12
Alias
VS12 (abbreviation)

Encodings

HTML Decimal Encoding
︋
HTML Hex Encoding
︋
UTF-8 Encoding
0xEF 0xB8 0x8B
UTF-16 Encoding
0xFE0B
UTF-32 Encoding
0x0000FE0B
C/C++/Java Escape
\ufe0b