WhatsApp is preparing a new feature for the billions of iPhones and Android phones around the world that will transform the way we communicate through voice and video calls, introducing the ability to react with any emoji without interrupting the interlocutor.
WhatsApp, with this update, ensures that users will be able to convey emotions and instant reactions, even during the conversation, without having to put the call on hold or say a word. The new experience is designed to be intuitive and accessible, to make the exchange of ideas and impressions more expressive and interactive.
WhatsApp will offer six default emojis, carefully selected to cover the most common responses: the emoticon expressing joy, the gesture of approval, the symbol of surprise, the heart that signals affection, and two other common reactions.
Each reaction can be sent with a simple tap on the screen, displaying on the avatars and in the center of the image, so that all participants in the call can immediately see the reaction. This approach facilitates a more dynamic dialogue and reduces the risk of voice interventions interrupting the flow of the conversation.
In parallel with the launch of the six standard reactions, WhatsApp is exploring the implementation of a feature that will expand the available options, allowing the choice of any emoji from the entire library supported by the standard keyboard.
New emoticons for video calls
With this mechanism, users will no longer be limited to a preset set, but will be able to select personalized reactions that accurately reflect the mood or context of the discussion. For example, people who are passionate about cooking could send an emoji with a baking dish in a culinary discussion, while colleagues in the professional environment could use neutral signs, specially adapted to work needs.
This expansion includes direct integration with the emoji keyboard, providing access to various categories – from smileys and gestures, to animals, objects or thematic symbols. For an even faster experience, there will be a section dedicated to recently used reactions, which will bring together the emojis previously selected by the user. Thus, in quick conversations or in large groups, frequent reactions can be redirected with a single gesture, saving time and ensuring spontaneity.
WhatsApp's motivation for this improvement is the need to offer maximum expressiveness in calls, similar to that available in text chat, where emoji reactions have already become standard. In many situations, the initial six options may seem restrictive.
Moments of deep empathy, sarcasm, or inner humor may require a more nuanced emoji to convey the appropriate tone. In group conversations with friends or family, users may want funny or ironic reactions, reflecting inside jokes and shared memories. Furthermore, in business calls, a set of neutral or contextual emojis can facilitate professional language without the risk of misinterpretation.
With this development, WhatsApp aims to standardize the user experience, ensuring a smooth transition between reactions in chat and in calls. The official launch of the new feature will take place in a future update, at which time all WhatsApp subscribers will be able to test reactions in real time. Until then, the company continues internal tests and gets feedback from users to refine the interface and ensure the stability of the service.
Once implemented, this update will strengthen WhatsApp’s position in the communications app landscape, offering a complete and expressive solution for voice and video calling. Users will not only benefit from quality calls, but also the ability to express their emotions exactly when it matters. With expanded and customizable emoji reactions, WhatsApp takes the calling experience to a new level of interactivity and digital closeness.
