WhatsApp to offer sticker suggestions as you type
What's the story
WhatsApp has released a new update for its Android app, version 2.25.34.11, through the Google Play Beta Program. The highlight of this update is a new feature that suggests stickers as you type your messages. The innovative tool is currently available to select beta testers and will be rolled out to more users in the coming weeks.
Functionality
How the sticker suggestion feature works
The sticker suggestion feature shows a dedicated sticker tray above the keyboard as you type. This tray displays stickers related to the emojis or text entered in the chat bar. If you tap on a suggested sticker, WhatsApp will automatically send it, making conversations more lively and expressive without having to navigate through different sticker packs.
Mechanism
Emoji associations determine sticker suggestions
Only static and animated stickers with emoji associations from their creation process can be suggested. Some third-party apps allow creators to assign up to three different emojis to a single sticker for better accuracy. These emoji associations must visually and contextually represent the sticker's meaning, ensuring relevant matches. This system not only helps users find stickers in the keyboard but also enables real-time suggestions while typing.
Restrictions
Limitations of WhatsApp's built-in sticker maker
WhatsApp's built-in sticker maker doesn't allow adding emoji associations to stickers created within the app. This means that none of the stickers you create through WhatsApp's editor will show up as suggestions. Instead, only those made in third-party apps with emoji associations will be eligible for automatic suggestions. So, if you're strictly using WhatsApp's built-in tool, you might not get the full benefit of this feature.
Compatibility
Official WhatsApp sticker store fully supports suggestions
All stickers from the official WhatsApp sticker store come with predefined emoji associations. This means that every sticker pack downloaded from the store works seamlessly with the new suggestion feature. Users can test and enjoy this feature even if they don't have stickers created through third-party apps. This ensures broad compatibility for anyone exploring WhatsApp's expanding sticker ecosystem.
Customization
User control over sticker suggestion feature
Users can choose whether they want sticker suggestions to appear while typing emojis. If you don't want any suggestions, you can disable the option anytime from WhatsApp Settings > Chats. This section includes a dedicated toggle that manages sticker suggestions. Turning it off immediately restores a more traditional typing experience without automatic prompts for stickers, giving users full control over their messaging experience.