WhatsApp Is Introducing Reaction Emoji Along with Improved Misinformation Controls

WhatsApp is launching some long-overdue messaging and calling capabilities, including one that might help to decrease misinformation spread. To begin, WhatsApp is introducing response emoji to allow users to express themselves without jamming up conversations. Support for bigger 32-person audio sessions is also included, as is the ability to transfer files up to 2GB to collaborate on projects

Additionally, group admins will have the ability to delete messages. This may be beneficial for minor tasks such as cleaning up unintentional messages or the occasional insult. But it can be especially effective for minimizing misinformation in regions where false claims are often spread through group conversations. Of course, this will be solely dependent on attentive and willing admins.

The anticipated features will be available in the “coming weeks” along with Community upgrades that will contain announcement messages. In some ways, these are catch-up additions, but they might be welcomed if you rely on WhatsApp and are hesitant to switch for some key functions.