WhatsApp is reportedly getting emoji reactions. Users will be able to respond to status updates, WhatsApp’s version of the Stories feature, using emojis using the “Quick Reactions” feature.
The eight new emojis that WhatsApp hopes to add are Smiling Face with Heart-Eyes, Face with Tears of Joy, Face with Open Mouth, Crying Face, Folded Hands, Clapping Hands, Party Popper, and Hundred Points.
According to WABetalnfo, emoji replies to status updates will soon be an option for Android beta testers. The feature is now available in WhatsApp beta version 2.22.17.24. The report claims that some users of beta versions 2.22.17.21, 2.22.17.22, and 2.22.17.23 are also reporting issues with this capability.
Given how simple Instagram is to use, you might have already done so. Inside the app, comments can be made on a contact’s status update.
What precisely is this feature then? You might have done so on Instagram already given how easy it is to use. It allows users to respond to their contacts’ status updates using one of the eight available emojis. Just like Instagram, you have to scroll up to see the status before tapping an emoji. Additionally, you will receive a notification and an emoji-heavy response whenever someone replies to your status.
Only a limited subset of beta users have access to the feature for now, but it is anticipated that this will change in the upcoming days. Emoji support for status update replies will likely be included when the stable release is complete. Whether or when this feature will be included in the stable version is still unknown officially.
It’s interesting to note that WhatsApp has already made use of an Instagram feature. In the past, WhatsApp users could react to messages with emojis and even choose which emojis to use, exactly like Instagram.
