WhatsApp Testing Sticker Reactions for Messages and Media

New Feature to Offer More Expressive Responses Beyond Emojis

April 29, 2025 — New Delhi: WhatsApp is expanding its messaging experience by testing sticker reactions for messages and media files, according to the latest beta update (version 2.25.13.23) available through the Google Play Beta Programme. Although the feature remains under development and is currently inaccessible to testers, it represents a significant step toward richer, more dynamic communication on the platform.

WhatsApp Sticker Reactions: What We Know

According to trusted feature tracker WABetaInfo, WhatsApp’s new feature will allow users to react to chats using stickers, much like the already available emoji reactions. Users will be able to select from:

• Pre-installed stickers,

• Downloaded sticker packs from the WhatsApp Sticker Store,

• Third-party stickers imported from external apps.

The upcoming functionality will also support animated stickers, including those developed using the Lottie Framework, promising more vibrant and expressive interactions than static emojis.

A leaked screenshot reveals that users will see an extended pop-up menu, showing six emoji reaction options and a newly added sticker icon when long-pressing a message. The sticker reactions aim to offer a richer, personalized way to respond without typing a full message.

Feature Rollout Timeline

Currently, the sticker reactions feature is not live for any beta testers and remains in the developmental phase. However, it is expected to first be rolled out to beta users before a wider public release on the stable version of WhatsApp for Android.

Interestingly, sticker-based reactions are already popular on rival platforms such as Apple’s iMessage, hinting that WhatsApp’s move could be a response to growing competition in the instant messaging space.

Enhancing User Interaction on WhatsApp

WhatsApp’s upcoming sticker reactions represent a broader strategy to enhance user interaction, making chats more expressive and engaging. Combined with the recent expansions in emoji reactions and animated features, WhatsApp continues to solidify its place as one of the world’s leading messaging platforms.

As development progresses, more details are expected to emerge regarding sticker management, customization options, and possible integration with third-party sticker apps.

Stay tuned for further updates as WhatsApp inches closer to bringing sticker reactions to millions of users globally.