- WhatsApp is working on reaction stickers for Status updates
- Fully customizable emojis, placed directly on the photo/video
- Reactions sent privately, protected by end-to-end encryption
- Real-time notifications and display in the activity sheet
- Chronological organization of reactions for quick visibility
- Stories-inspired experience with visible reaction point on screen
WhatsApp is developing a feature that will allow users to add a reaction sticker to their Status images or videos before publishing them. The emoji-based sticker is placed right above the content and transforms each Status into a more expressive and interactive space. The goal is to make interactions more dynamic, in a manner similar to the Instagram Stories experience, but maintaining the platform’s principles of simplicity.
Full emoji customization
Key new feature: Users can choose from the full set of emojis so that the reaction sticker reflects their exact mood or message. This flexibility allows for a consistent tone across all Statuses, and each sticker becomes personal and contextual. WhatsApp puts creative control in the hands of users, for a richer visual language.
Fast, private and secure responses
When opening a Status with a reaction sticker, the viewer immediately sees the interactive emoji on the screen. A simple tap sends the reaction to the creator, without composing additional messages. All these interactions are private: only the creator of the Status sees who reacted. In addition, WhatsApp maintains protection with end-to-end encryption, so the reaction data remains secure and inaccessible to third parties.
Real-time notifications and dedicated activity sheet
When someone reacts with a sticker, the author receives an instant notification on their phone with the contact's name and the emoji used. Reactions are also displayed in an activity sheet for each Status, for a clear overview. The chronological organization helps authors efficiently track feedback and respond at the right time.
Why engagement increases with reaction stickers
Unlike the current system, which requires swiping up and selecting one of eight preset emojis, the sticker is already visible on the screen. The reaction point is thus obvious and the invitation to interact is stronger. This visibility turns a passive viewer into an active participant, increasing the chances of engagement for each Status.
Availability: feature under development
This WhatsApp feature is scheduled for a future release and is currently in development. Until it debuts, users can imagine how custom emojis will integrate into their visual style and stimulate quick and natural conversations around Status.
Reaction stickers for Status promise to make WhatsApp more expressive, faster, and more secure all at the same time. Through personalization, real-time notifications, and end-to-end encryption, the platform creates an immediate, frictionless feedback flow. If you want your Statuses to shine and attract authentic responses, get ready: when the feature launches, adopt the new WhatsApp reaction stickers and turn every view into real engagement.
