what you need to know
- Emoji reaction effects can be used for SMS or RCS messages.
- Users have a total of ten reactions, each of which sends a unique animation effect.
- Currently, disinterested users cannot disable the feature.
Google is introducing emoji reaction effects designed to enhance the conversational experience in Google Messages.
For example, a thumbs up reaction sends several animated thumbs up icons, while a crying face emoji reaction sends an animated umbrella with a raining effect.
To take advantage of this newly deployed feature, users simply long-press on a message (SMS or RCS) and then select the appropriate response from a designated list of 10 responses.
The 10 reactions are as follows: thumbs up, thumbs down, red heart, tears of joy, open mouth, angry, angry, crying, party, and more.
The new update follows Google’s rollout of Photomoji, animated emojis and screen effects. While it was originally revealed in November as part of a big Messages update celebrating Messages reaching 1 billion RCS users, it took some time to actually make its way to handheld devices.
At the time, Google said, “This feature is designed to add dynamics to your chats, embodying the expressive power of all ten popular emojis.”
While these effects may be attractive to many users, others may not see the same benefits. Currently, these users cannot disable these reactions, although this may change in the future.
All in all, the latest update brings Google Messages more in line with rival iMessage available in Apple’s ecosystem. Previously, iMessage also had this effect although its deployment mechanism was different. Regardless, this update will help add more fun to chat, and fun is always worth celebrating.