WhatsApp is enhancing user experience by testing animated emojis in its latest beta version for iPhone. This move aligns WhatsApp with its competitor Telegram, which already offers animated emojis. The latest beta for WhatsApp iOS introduces these animated emojis through the TestFlight program, following their earlier release for Android users last month.
In this beta release, WhatsApp replaces the standard Apple emojis with its own animated versions. Initially, iOS users will find animated versions of popular emojis like the wink, laughing face, and red heart. These animations add a lively touch to chats, making interactions more engaging and fun.
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WhatsApp iOS Beta Brings Animated Emojis to Chats
According to WABetaInfo, WhatsApp has prioritized animating the most popular emojis first, with plans to expand the animated collection in future updates. When iOS users select an emoji from the iPhone keyboard, they will initially see the usual iOS emoji. However, once sent in a WhatsApp chat, the emoji will transform into the animated version created by Meta. Users can even tap on the animated emoji to replay the animation, adding an extra layer of interaction.
Concerns Over Public Release
Despite the excitement surrounding this new feature, there are concerns about its public release. Previously, Apple rejected animated emoji updates from Telegram due to their similarity to official iOS emojis. It remains to be seen whether WhatsApp’s animated emoji update will receive approval from Apple.
New Feature: WhatsApp Nearby Share
In addition to animated emojis, WhatsApp is also testing a new feature in its beta app called “WhatsApp Nearby Share.” This feature allows users to send files without an internet connection, working across both Android and iOS devices through a QR Code. This makes file sharing easier even without Wi-Fi or cellular data.
