Which selector requests emoji-style presentation in Unicode variation sequences?

Variation Selector-16 requests emoji-style presentation in Unicode variation sequences.

Variation Selector-16, commonly written VS16 and encoded as U+FE0F, follows a character to request an emoji presentation when that character can also appear as ordinary text. For example, a sequence such as U+2600 followed by U+FE0F asks for the sun symbol in an emoji-style rendering rather than a plain text glyph.

Its counterpart is Variation Selector-15, U+FE0E, which requests text presentation. The selector does not create a new character by itself; it modifies how the preceding character is displayed. A font or platform may still determine the exact artwork, color, and design.

A frequent misconception is that every emoji needs VS16. Many emoji characters have emoji presentation by default, while others are “text default” and need the selector to request the colorful form. Variation selectors are also distinct from skin-tone modifiers and zero-width joiners, which perform different roles in emoji sequences.