Image credit: Gizmodo

The next version of software for the iPhone and iPad will include gay and lesbian emojis for the first time. Emojis are the small emoticon-like icons or pictures included in some phone operating systems. They can be inserted into text messages or emails.

First discovered by Gizmodo, the new emojis in the iOS 6 operating system feature both lesbian and gay couples holding hands. There are also ones of heterosexual couples. Apple has publicly supported gay rights; its LGBT employees released an "It Gets Better Video" last year. Beyond the same-sex emojis, there are some other additions, Gizmodo says.

Apple's iOS 6 operating system is due out later this year. It was detailed earlier this week at the company's WWDC conference in San Francisco.