How do I make emoticons appear in WhatsApp?

How do I make emoticons appear in WhatsApp - briefly?

To enable emoticons in WhatsApp, ensure that your device's keyboard settings allow for emoji input. Additionally, update both WhatsApp and your device's operating system to the latest versions available.

How do I make emoticons appear in WhatsApp - in detail?

To enable and use emoticons, also known as emojis, in WhatsApp, you can follow these detailed steps:

  1. Update Your App: Ensure that your WhatsApp application is up to date. Emoji support is regularly updated, so having the latest version will give you access to new emoticons. You can update WhatsApp through the Google Play Store or Apple App Store, depending on your device.
  2. Enable Keyboard Settings:

    • For iOS Devices: Go to 'Settings' > 'General' > 'Keyboard'. Make sure that 'Emoji' is enabled under the keyboard list. If it’s not there, you can add it by tapping 'Add New Keyboard...' and selecting 'Emoji'.
    • For Android Devices: The process varies depending on your device manufacturer, but generally, you go to 'Settings' > 'System' > 'Language & Input' or 'Advanced Settings'. Ensure the keyboard you are using supports emojis. Some popular keyboards like Gboard come with built-in emoji support.
  3. Use Emojis in Messages:

    • Open WhatsApp and navigate to a chat where you want to use an emoticon.
    • Tap on the text input field to bring up the keyboard.
    • Look for the emoji icon, which is usually a smiley face or a globe. This icon varies by device but is typically found in the bottom row of the keyboard.
    • Tap the emoji icon to open the emoji keyboard. Here you can browse through various categories like 'Smileys & People', 'Animals & Nature', 'Food & Drink', and more.
    • Select the emoticon you want to use, and it will appear in your message input field. You can send it by tapping the send button.
  4. Customizing Emojis: Some keyboards allow you to customize or create your own emojis. For example, Gboard offers a feature called 'Stickers' where you can create and share personalized stickers.
  5. Using Third-Party Apps: If the built-in keyboard doesn’t meet your needs, consider using third-party apps like Bitmoji or Emoji Maker. These apps allow you to create custom emoticons that you can then copy and paste into WhatsApp.
  6. Emoji Shortcuts (For Android): Some Android keyboards support emoji shortcuts. For instance, typing ':)' may automatically convert to a smiley face emoji. Check your keyboard’s settings to see if this feature is available.

By following these steps, you can effectively use and enjoy a wide range of emoticons in WhatsApp, enhancing your communication with friends and family.