WhatsApp New Features: Reacting To Messages Via Double-Tap Feature Might Soon Be Rolled Out

A new feature for quickly reacting to messages has reportedly been identified in WhatsApp for Android beta version 2.24.16.7.

WhatsApp is reportedly testing a new gesture feature that we have seen in Meta-owned Instagram. This feature is what we use often while chatting with our friends on Instagram. We can double-click on any message on Instagram to like it and now WhatsApp is planning to bring something similar to its users. According to a report by the WABetaInfo, this feature won't necessarily like the message on tapping it twice but it will bring up a default emoji which can be different than a heart react. 

WhatsApp New Feature: Message Reactions

As reported by WhatsApp beta tracker WABetaInfo, a new feature for quickly reacting to messages has been identified in WhatsApp for Android beta version 2.24.16.7. This feature will potentially allow users to react to messages by double-tapping them, with a default 'heart emoji' appearing, akin to reactions available on other Meta platforms such as Instagram and Facebook.

This update is expected to streamline the reaction process, enabling users to double-tap a message to select the 'heart' emoji rather than tapping and holding to choose it.

Currently, this double-tap reaction feature is available only to beta testers, as it is still under development. Therefore, it can only be accessed by users running the latest WhatsApp for Android beta version through the Google Play Beta program.

WhatsApp New Features: Offline File-Sharing

Meta-owned WhatsApp is working on a new feature that will enable users to transfer files without needing an active Internet connection. Similar to Apple's AirDrop and Google's Nearby Share, this feature will allow for the seamless exchange of documents, videos, photos, and other files without using mobile data or relying on an Internet connection.

Initially discovered on Android devices by WABetaInfo earlier this year, recent updates indicate that WhatsApp is now aiming to extend this capability to iOS devices as well. This cross-platform development highlights WhatsApp's dedication to delivering a consistent user experience across various operating systems.