WhatsApp beta for Android begins rollout of redesigned emoji keyboard

1 min readJun 7, 20234:15 AM

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WhatsApp, the popular messaging app, is experimenting with a new redesigned Emoji keyboard that divides emoji, GIFs and stickers into three categories on the top. This keyboard was first spotted as being in development but now it’s starting to roll out in the latest version of WhatsApp beta for Android v2.23.12.13 from the Google Play Store.

This development is being reported by WABetaInfo along with images of what the new keyboard looks like. The rollout is not global though and it looks like it’s being gradually pushed server-side to beta users.

With this new keyboard, WhatsApp users will be able to scroll up on the keyboard and enjoy a full-screen view of the emoji list. However, you must first initiate a chat to check if your account has this capability. Additionally, a select number of beta testers may also notice a reorganization of the media sharing and emoji keyboard buttons.

Besides the changes to the keyboard, this latest beta also adds a new feature called “Community Settings,” which lets community admins choose who can add groups. This group setting is set to “Only community admins” by default, but you can change it to allow community members to add their own groups.

Unfortunately, the beta version of WhatsApp on the Google Play Store is perpetually full and rarely open for new users to sign up for. However, if you were lucky enough to grab a spot, you should definitely update to the newest version to try this out. Likewise, if you are able to sign up in the future, you must definitely sign up as well so you can secure your spot to beta test.

Emojis have become an integral part of digital communication, allowing users to express emotions, convey messages, and add a touch of personalization to their conversations. By enhancing the emoji keyboard, WhatsApp hopes to elevate the way users engage and enhance the user experience.

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Questions & Answers

Which WhatsApp version introduces the redesigned emoji keyboard?

The new emoji keyboard is starting to roll out in the latest version of WhatsApp beta for Android v2.23.12.13. This version is available from the Google Play Store for beta users.

What is the key change to the emoji keyboard's layout?

The redesigned emoji keyboard now divides emoji, GIFs, and stickers into three separate categories at the top. Users can also scroll up for a full-screen view of the emoji list.

Is the new emoji keyboard available to all WhatsApp beta users immediately?

No, the rollout is not global and is being gradually pushed server-side to beta users. Some beta testers may also notice a reorganisation of other buttons.

What other new feature is included in this WhatsApp beta update?

This latest beta also adds a new feature called “Community Settings,” which lets community admins choose who can add groups. The default setting is “Only community admins.”

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