The latest WhatsApp beta version (2.24.8.6) is testing a new ‘like’ button for quick reactions to status updates. This addition mirrors the familiar like button found on popular social media platforms like Instagram and X.
According to TheSpAndroid, the heart icon (like button) will be located directly next to the existing reply bar on the status interface. While users can already respond to statuses with emojis or stickers, the ‘like’ button offers a streamlined way to express a positive reaction.
Currently, it’s not confirmed whether the like button will send a standard emoji (such as a thumbs up or heart) or allow users to react to status updates similarly to how they can with messages. Still, this is a welcome addition that should improve the overall user experience by allowing for faster, more convenient reactions to WhatsApp status updates. Once implemented, there won’t be a need to tap and scroll through emojis to like your friend’s WhatsApp status updates since there will be a dedicated button for instant reactions.
Since this feature is still in beta, the final implementation may have variations. Also, it’s unclear how long it will take for it to materialize since in its current shape, it still crashes. That said, we’ll keep an eye on future WhatsApp updates to see the ‘like’ button in action and how it will finally function.
