Ever received the dreaded 'Read' on your WhatsApp, and wondered what the person on the other end of the phone actually feels about your message?
Or, have you received a text that may not warrant a message back, but a funky little emoji could suffice instead?
WhatsApp's newest update may just save those awkward interactions for you then, as the Daily Star reports that users of the messaging service will soon be able to react to messages, and even manage their notifications so they appear on lock screens like other social media apps.
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Apple product users will be the first people to receive the newest update, with a second one due to help manage notifications for both group and individual chats.
At the time of writing, however, there is no further information on when Android users will receive the newest update.
The update is available now through WhatsApp's beta programme, that is free for anybody to sign up to.
This programme allows you to test out the experimental features that the developers at WhatsApp have created, including those that may never be released to the general public.
While this update gives users the ability to manage message reactions, it won't allow people to react to messages just yet.
WhatsApp insiders WABetaInfo said: "You are now able to manage when you should receive notifications for reactions, for individual chats and groups, and which tone to play when you receive those notifications.
"Unfortunately, it's still not possible to react to messages, but the fact it's possible to manage these settings suggests that message reactions will be available very soon."
How can I sign up for the new WhatsApp beta?
To register for the new update and try it out before everyone else, follow the instructions below:
- Open WhatsApp and tap the three dots, then head to 'More Options'
- Tap Linked Devices
- Hit 'Multi-device beta'
- Tap 'Join beta'
Once you've joined the beta programme, you'll be able to try out every new version of WhatsApp before it is released to the general public.
Some of its features are experimental and will never see the light of day, so it's a good opportunity to try out some secret technology.
