WhatsApp is unveiling a brand new update that will allow its users to use any emoji they want as a reaction to chats. The feature was initially announced in April but only started officially releasing to everyone in May.
WhatsApp Previous Limitations Only Allowed Users to Use Six Reactions
As per its announcement, the emoji reaction feature only came with six choices, thumbs up, heart, joined hands, tears of joy, crying face, and mouth open. As per Zuckerberg's announcement of the new feature, they are going to let anyone react with any emoji through WhatsApp.
According to the story by Tech Crunch, for those that do not yet see the feature on their app, it could take a few days before it officially registers. Just like with Facebook Messenger, in order for people to use the effects, all that needs to be done is to long-press the message and click on the + button.
Users Can Choose Reactions from a Complete List of Emojis
Users will then be able to pick out an emoji from their complete list and the emoji can be seen under the message itself. The brand new feature is a fun visual addition that won't limit users from using six different emojis in the app.
As per the article, WhatsApp is trying to compete with Telegram by allowing users to use a wider range of emojis. When WhatsApp announced changes in its policy and users were trying to look for alternatives to the messaging service, both Telegram and Signal were two messaging apps that stood out.
Difference Between WhatsApp and Telegram's Approach
Although Telegram still allowed users to use a wide range of different emoji reactions, this feature wasn't available to everyone. In order for users to try out a wider range of emoji reactions, users had to pay a premium subscription.
Telegram's premium subscription model launched in June and gives users access to a more upgraded range of features for its users. The premium service included the ability to send heavier files, download faster, and improved chat management.
WhatsApp's Most Recent Feature Updates
The emoji reaction feature is referred to as WhatsApp's first big rollout in July. This is after WhatsApp previously announced certain features like Android to iPhone chat transfer to make things easier for users when switching from either device.
One problem a lot of Android or iPhone users have when switching is that messaging apps do not always support the shift which could result in users losing all the important chats from their previous device. With the new WhatsApp feature, users won't have to struggle when shifting from one provider to another.
WhatsApp has also added some new anonymity features which allows users to hide when they last saw a message and even their profile picture from certain people.
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This article is owned by Tech Times
Written by Urian B.
