Ableton has added a new feature to the latest beta version of Live and it could make working in the software easier and more fun. The ability to add emojis into track names may not seem like a big deal, but for navigating large projects and annotating takes it could be a game-changer.

For example, the function will allow you to use emojis to denote the quality of performances – ‘face screaming in fear’ and ‘fire’ are both fine candidates for that task.

Or, use the newly available characters to describe each track’s contents succinctly for quick navigation – ‘drum’, ‘musical keyboard’ and ‘speaking head’ all jump out as obvious choices. Emojis could help with navigating I/O in track groups, too.


This news comes hot on the heels of the Berlin company’s launch of Learning Synthesis, a microsite which teaches the fundamentals of building synth patches.

To get on to the public beta, you need to own a Live 10 license. More info at ableton.com.