WhatsApp to Introduce Animated Sticker Reactions for Chats and Media

WhatsApp, Meta’s popular messaging platform, is reportedly testing a new feature that allows users to react to messages and media with animated stickers. As per WABetaInfo, a trusted source for WhatsApp updates, this feature is currently being rolled out to select beta users on the Android version of the app. A wider release is expected in the upcoming weeks.

A Step Beyond Static Emoji Reactions

Currently, WhatsApp supports basic emoji reactions, offering users a limited set of static emojis to express responses to texts, images, and videos. While useful, this feature lacks variety and visual flair—something WhatsApp now aims to change with animated sticker-based reactions.

How Animated Sticker Reactions Will Work

Once this feature goes live, users will be able to long-press on any message or media, just like they do now for emoji reactions. However, in addition to the standard six emoji choices, a new sticker icon will appear. Tapping on it will let users access their sticker keyboard and choose any animated sticker as a reaction.

This feature will not be restricted to a handful of stickers. Users can utilize their full sticker collection—whether they are official WhatsApp stickers or third-party packs imported from other apps. This means no limitations on creativity or expression, making conversations far more engaging.

A Move Toward More Expressive Communication

By integrating animated sticker reactions, WhatsApp is following in the footsteps of other messaging platforms like Apple’s iMessage, which already supports sticker-based replies. This update aims to enhance user interaction by allowing more personalized, fun, and expressive reactions beyond static emojis.

With animated stickers, users will be able to better convey emotions and responses in a more visually rich and dynamic manner—especially useful in lively group chats or informal conversations.

Expanding the Creative Toolkit for Users

This upcoming feature is part of WhatsApp's broader push to make the platform more creative and visually engaging. Over the past year, WhatsApp has introduced features like message editing, voice message playback speed control, and personalized avatars. The addition of sticker reactions further complements these efforts, offering users more tools to express themselves without typing a single word.

Moreover, since users can use third-party stickers, it allows for regional customization, memes, brand-specific stickers, and culturally relevant expressions, making chats more inclusive and locally appealing.

WhatsApp Web to Support Voice and Video Calls

In addition to sticker reactions, WhatsApp is also testing another long-awaited feature: voice and video calling on WhatsApp Web. At present, users must switch to the desktop app on Windows or macOS to place a call. However, the web client is expected to receive dedicated call buttons soon.

Once available, WhatsApp Web users will see voice and video call icons beside the chat window, similar to the mobile app interface. This move will eliminate the need to download an additional desktop app and make communication even more accessible across devices.

When Will These Features Be Available?

While there's no official release date yet, these updates are currently undergoing testing in WhatsApp Beta for Android. A broader public rollout is likely in the coming weeks or months, depending on the stability and feedback from beta testers.

WhatsApp continues to invest in improving user experience, with a strong focus on making conversations richer, more interactive, and personalized—ensuring that the platform remains relevant in an increasingly visual-first digital landscape.