Source: Android Central
What you need to know
- Google has begun testing the much-anticipated 'reactions' feature in its Messages app.
- For now, only a small number of users are seeing the feature in their RCS chats.
- Google is expected to begin rolling out the feature to users sometime in the coming weeks.
Earlier this year, an APK teardown had revealed that Google was working on adding emoji reactions similar to iMessage to its Messages app. It now appears that Google has started testing the feature for RCS chats in the Messages app.
As spotted by Android Police, a few users on Reddit have confirmed that message reactions have started appearing in Google Messages. To select an emoji reaction, users have to long press on a message. As of now, however, it appears there are only seven emoji reactions to choose from.
Source: rwinftw onn Reddit and radtheoristmango.on Reddit
When a user who has the feature enabled sends a message reaction to another user who does not, a fallback text is sent, describing the emoji that was used for the message. As per users on Reddit, however, these fallback messages are not sent to contacts who do not have RCS enabled. The emoji reaction feature is currently not available for SMS-only conversations.
Even though Google has rolled out a new beta version of its Messages app, you won't be able to access message reactions simply by installing the latest beta. While it hasn't been confirmed, there is a good chance that it is a limited server-side test. Google will likely share more information about the new feature soon and could begin rolling it out to users sometime in the second half of the year.
We may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more.
Samsung fixes the Galaxy S20 FE's touchscreen issues with new update
The Galaxy S20 FE has started receiving its second software update. In addition to device stability improvements, it also improves the responsiveness of the phone's touchscreen.
These are the best Synology NAS enclosures in 2020
With a network attached storage enclosure, you can easily back up data from all devices on your home network, and you can use it as a powerful media server. With options starting off from just $100, these are the best Synology NAS enclosures for home use.
When will my phone get Android 11?
There's a lot to look forward to with Android 11, but when will your phone actually get it? Here's everything we know!
Spice up your smartphone or tablet with the best icon packs for Android
Being able to customize your device is fantastic as it helps to make your device even more of "your own". With the power of Android, you can use third-party launchers to add custom icon themes and these are just some of our favorites.