WhatsApp is upping its game with a series of updates to make messaging faster, more intuitive, and a little more fun.
The features – which started rolling out to US users on Friday – allow users can double-tap to react to messages.
New WhatsApp features
The new feature was designed to save time and keep your most-used emojis just a tap away. Let’s take a look!
Quick reactions, made quicker
If scrolling through a wall of emojis to find the perfect reaction feels like a hassle, WhatsApp’s new update is for you. Double-tapping a message now instantly reacts with your most-used emoji, and a scrolling pop-out menu displays your favourite reactions at the top.
This update mirrors the user-friendly emoji selection already offered by platforms like Discord, where quick reactions are essential. You can still access the full range of emojis by clicking the plus symbol on the reaction bar, giving you options without compromising speed.
Meta’s Messenger app, by comparison, sticks to a static set of five reaction emojis. Hopefully, we’ll see this WhatsApp improvement make its way across Meta’s suite of messaging apps soon.
Creative WhatsApp update for chats
WhatsApp isn’t stopping at emojis. The platform is bringing new tools to personalise your messages:
- Filters and effects for photos and videos: Users can now apply up to 30 visual effects directly within chats to add some flair to their shots.
- Custom stickers from selfies: Android users can create custom stickers from selfies by tapping the sticker icon in chats. iOS support is on the way, so Apple fans, hang tight.
- Share sticker packs: Found a sticker pack you love? You can now share it directly in chats with friends.
These creative additions aim to bring more personality to your WhatsApp conversations, whether you’re snapping a quick photo or sending a custom sticker.
What’s next for WhatsApp?
With its user-friendly updates, WhatsApp is ensuring that messaging stays fast, fun, and functional.
Whether you’re reacting to a friend’s text or sprucing up your photos, these upgrades make the app a better tool for staying connected.