Facebook Messenger Emoji Updates - New Features

Messenger Updates: Enhanced Emoji Reactions and Soundmojis

Communicating with visuals is now even simpler on Facebook Messenger. The platform is rolling out several updates designed to streamline the process of selecting the perfect emoji for reacting to messages.

Emoji Reaction Search and Recent Use

Users can now utilize a dedicated search bar to quickly locate specific emoji reactions. This addresses the nuanced differences between similar emojis, such as distinguishing between "crying laughing" and simply "crying."

A recently used emojis section has also been implemented, providing quick access to frequently utilized reactions.

“Space Jam 2” Chat Theme

For fans of the film, a “Space Jam 2” chat theme is available on both Messenger and Instagram Direct Messages. This theme features a basketball as the chat’s emoji.

However, it’s important to note that the popular basketball mini-game from previous Messenger versions has not been reintroduced with this update.

The Evolution of Emoji Interaction

Innovation in emoji functionality continues across social media platforms. Twitter has explored allowing emoji reactions to tweets, demonstrating a broader trend.

Furthermore, the integration of audio into emojis is a new frontier, as evidenced by Messenger’s latest feature.

Introducing Soundmojis

Last week, Messenger launched Soundmojis – emojis that incorporate audio. These can be accessed through the smiley face icon within the chat box.

Selecting the loudspeaker icon reveals a selection of nearly 30 standard emojis. When tapped, these emojis play corresponding sounds, including quotes from “Brooklyn 99,” clips from Olivia Rodrigo, and lines from “Bridgerton.”

Notably, the “X” emoji triggers the playback of “Oh No” by Capone, a song that gained popularity on TikTok.

Emoji Usage Statistics

Facebook Messenger reports that over 2.4 billion messages containing emojis are sent daily on the platform. This highlights the significant role emojis play in online communication.

While these updates are welcome, users are still hoping for the return of interactive mini-games, such as the soccer emoji game that allowed users to simulate “keepie uppie.”