WhatsApp's Default Reaction Emojis Could Soon Be Fully Customisable

WhatsApp has always shown the same six default emojis whenever you react to a message. That could finally change soon, as WhatsApp is reportedly testing a feature to let Android users replace those quick preset reactions with emojis of their choice.

The feature was spotted by WABetaInfo in the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.26.29.3 update via the Google Play Store. According to the report, WhatsApp is developing a way for users to replace the default quick-reaction emojis with a personalised set, making frequently used reactions much easier to access.

WhatsApp custom emoji reaction tested on Android — Image Credit: WABetaInfo

As is evident from the above image, WhatsApp users on Android in future will be able to edit the default emoji selection on the emoji tray. For context, the current emoji tray implementation is fixed and suggests the same set of quick-access emojis to every user.

WhatsApp could allow users to add up to six custom emojis of their preference from the full emoji keyboard. This will show only those emojis on the tray that users have selected, making the messaging experience even more personalised.

This is an important implementation, as no two individuals use WhatsApp for the same purpose. This makes the default emoji choice on Android unfit for all situations. For instance, someone using WhatsApp for talking to friends might not use the same six emojis as someone using WhatsApp for professional conversations.

Custom Emoji Reactions Could Arrive via WhatsApp Plus

While the ability to add custom emojis to the emoji tray is useful for everyone, WhatsApp might reserve this ability for its WhatsApp Plus paid subscription members only. The report states that the messaging platform plans to bundle custom emoji reactions with its paid plan to make it more interesting for users.

For those unaware, Meta launched a paywall-based feature segregation for WhatsApp, Instagram and Facebook users back in May 2026. This brings a Rs 79 per month subscription plan to WhatsApp, allowing users to unlock exclusive features and abilities that help them stand out from regular users.

However, it is important to note that none of this has been officially revealed by Meta and the custom emoji reaction feature is currently under development. Given WABetaInfo's track record, we can expect the feature to come to fruition and we should know more when access is opened for beta testers on Android. So, stay tuned.