WhatsApp will soon allow you to use the emoji of your choice for reactions, but there is a downside.

      Are you tired of always using the same six emojis? WhatsApp Plus might soon allow you to choose your own.

      Emoji reactions are one of the standout features of WhatsApp. They enable you to swiftly respond to a message with just a long press and a tap, which is especially convenient when you’re in a rush or prefer a brief reply.

      One limitation users have faced is the inability to customize the emoji tray, meaning you’re limited to the emojis WhatsApp provides. However, this could change with an upcoming update.

      When did WhatsApp begin developing this feature?

      Last month, WhatsApp started testing a custom reaction tray on Android, and that process is still in progress. Now, as reported by WABetaInfo, the same feature has appeared in the beta version of WhatsApp for iOS 26.32.10.16 available on TestFlight. Thus, iPhone users won’t have to wait much longer to try it out.

      At present, your reaction tray includes Thumbs Up, Red Heart, Face with Tears of Joy, Surprised Face, Crying Face, and Folded Hands (👍, ❤️, 😂, 😮, 😢, and 🙏). These are followed by the emojis you use most often, with a plus (+) button to access additional options.

      However, quick reactions are meant for immediate responses, so the ability to personalize the default emojis will be a fantastic addition.

      How will the new reaction tray function?

      Once it is available, you will be able to go into the app settings and replace any of the six default emojis with ones you frequently use. WABetaInfo shared a screenshot showing the default selection next to a custom version. You can change as many emojis as you wish, and if you tire of your selections, reverting to the original set will be just as straightforward.

      What’s the downside?

      While I am excited about this feature, it's disappointing that not everyone will have access to it. This feature is part of the second set of updates for WhatsApp Plus, alongside themes, custom icons, premium stickers, and the capability to pin up to 20 chats. This means that unless you’re a paying user, you won’t be able to use this feature, which is unfortunate.

      Rachit is an experienced tech journalist with over ten years of experience in the consumer technology field.

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