WhatsApp has been working on a message reactions feature since August 2021. In November, it was reported that the company was still making adjustments to the highly-anticipated function. Now, the feature appears to be entering its final stages ahead of its release, according to WABetaInfo.
Here’s what message reactions on WhatsApp could look like
Back in 2021, it was reported that the feature was still under development and no set timeframe was noted for its release. Now, WABetainfo has shared screenshots of WhatsApp reactions, giving us an early look at what the feature could look like once it is released to the general public. Similar to Facebook Messenger, users will see a row of emojis above the message. It is unclear whether users will have to long-press on a message or if there will be a dedicated button next to the message to add a reaction.
The six available reactions are Like, Love, Laugh, Surprised, Sad, and Thanks depicted by six emoji which include thumbs up, heart, face with tears of joy, face with open mouth, crying face, and folded hands. When a reaction is selected, It appears at the bottom of the message.
Meta’s other apps such as Facebook Messenger and Instagram already feature support for message reactions so it seems natural that they are being added to WhatsApp now. Notably, Facebook Messenger and Instagram do offer access to a full emoji picked in its reaction options but it is unclear if it will become available to WhatsApp users as well.
According to the publication, WhatsApp will bring reactions to both iOS and Android in an upcoming beta before releasing it to the general public. WaBetainfo also notes that reactions will be end-to-end encrypted, just like messages and backups on the app.
In a future update, WhatsApp is also planning on repositioning the “Broadcast Lists” and “New Group” options from the chats list to make the user interface clean and less cluttered. The platform will also add new animated heart emojis and a new notification for mentions in group chats.
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