Whatsapp continues to iterate on its updates, with the ability to react to messages expanding, allowing you to use any emoji thanks to a new ‘plus’ icon.
Reacting to emojis on WhatsApp saved many users from replying to messages with words. A simple cry or thumbs-up emoji can more easily cut through the awkwardness in a conversation.
It’s something that has appeared on other messaging apps like Instagram and Facebook Messenger, but WhatsApp will finally let you express how you really want to react to a friend or family member.
While WaBetaInfo does not say (opens in new tab) when it could be coming for everyone, it’s now available for beta users at android and iOS.
Analysis: let’s see gifs and other reaction options
Meta is constantly expanding WhatsApp’s capabilities – from best voice notes to be able to leave a group silent without any drama.
However, it can go further into reactions. Other apps like iMessage and WeChat let you use stickers as a reaction instead of emojis, but WhatsApp can take it a step further with GIFS.
Nowadays, there are many websites where you can create your own GIFs – Frinkiac (opens in new tab) comes to mind that lets you use a classic Simpsons reference as an answer. But let’s see the ability to use them as reacts too.
WhatsApp is currently in a battle in the messaging space with Apple, Telegram, WeChat and apps from its own parent company like Facebook and Instagram. But if it keeps up with these new features, then there is less chance that its users will switch to these other apps in the near future.
