WhatsApp update is borrowing another feature from Messenger and Instagram
Manav JainPublished: Dec 6, 2023Updated: Oct 17, 2026
WhatsApp is testing a feature the place you possibly can react to a message with a coronary heart emoji, just like a feature in each Facebook Messenger and Instagram.Meta owns all three of those messaging apps, but there are customers who do not have all of those apps put in on their units. But there is a want for related options throughout these apps, so long as they make sense, and reactions are a superb instance of this.Reacting to messages is a helpful means of replying to somebody with out typing out a sentence. It can inform the sender that you have seen the message, however you do not have time to answer to something substantial as but.Currently in testing for the desktop app of WhatsApp in model 2.2208.1, you possibly can check out the feature on Windows 11 and macOS.
Analysis: When options from different apps work properly
(Image credit score: WABetaInfo)Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp all fall beneath the identical umbrella as Meta, the mother or father firm headed up by Mark Zuckerberg.Every app both is a messaging app or has messaging options. But indirectly, these are all utilized by its customers, and some options work higher on totally different platforms, from iOS to Windows.Stories are an incredible instance of this - they do not make sense for WhatsApp, but it is on the app within the 'Status' tab. But for Instagram, it does make sense, and it really works properly for its customers, because it's a good way of sharing pictures and movies briefly bursts.For reactions, it is another feature the place it helps to answer to a message rapidly, with out utilizing your keyboard, and for WhatsApp it is sensible.Taking options from different apps ought to solely happen in the event that they work in the direction of the app's supposed goal, and with how a person interacts with the app in query.While Stories did not work for WhatsApp, reactions do, so it will be fascinating to see what different options from Messenger and Instagram carry throughout within the coming months.
Compliant with Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (DPDP Act)
Choose which categories of cookies and data processing you permit. You can update or withdraw your consent at any time using the "Cookie Preferences" link in the footer.
Strictly Necessary
Always Active
Essential for core site functions, account security, CSRF protection, session integrity, and remembering your display preferences (e.g. dark/light theme). These cannot be disabled.
Analytics & Performance
Optional
Helps us understand how visitors interact with our content, count pageviews, identify popular articles, and measure website speed (e.g. Google Analytics). Data is processed in aggregated and anonymized form.
Functional & Personalization
Optional
Enables enhanced features such as saving articles to your personal reading list, star ratings, emoji reactions, and personalized content recommendations based on your interests.
Marketing & Targeted Advertising
Optional
Used by our advertising partners (e.g. Google AdSense) to serve ads tailored to your topics of interest and limit repetitive ads. Without this, you will still see ads, but they will not be personalized.
Your Rights under DPDP Act 2023
You have the right to access, correct, or erase your personal data, withdraw consent, nominate a representative, or file a grievance. Visit our Data Rights Portal →
Comments
No comments yet — be the first to share your thoughts.