WhatsApp iOS beta hints at smarter sticker recommendations

WhatsApp is currently experimenting with an exciting new feature designed to enhance the sticker-sharing experience for iOS users. The latest beta version for iOS, accessible through Apple’s TestFlight program, introduces an automatic sticker suggestion tool that streamlines the way users share stickers while composing messages. According to reports from 9To5Mac, this new functionality aims to eliminate the hassle of navigating through the sticker tray. Instead, users will receive relevant sticker suggestions directly on their chat screen as they type. This feature is part of WhatsApp beta version 26.1.10.72 and is activated when a user inputs an emoji that has corresponding stickers. When an emoji is typed, a small sticker icon appears next to the send button. By tapping this icon, users can access a compact results panel showcasing stickers and GIFs related to that emoji. Additionally, users have the option to select a “Show more results” button to view an expanded selection without leaving the conversation. The sticker suggestions are based on predefined emoji associations established during the sticker creation phase. Only stickers tagged with specific emojis will be eligible for these suggestions. WABetaInfo highlights that various third-party sticker creation apps for iOS already enable the assignment of multiple emojis to a single sticker, thereby increasing the chances of relevant suggestions. Interestingly, stickers made with WhatsApp’s built-in sticker creator do not currently support emoji associations, meaning they won’t appear in the suggested results. However, this limitation could be temporary as WhatsApp may refine its sticker creation tools before a broader rollout. As with many features in the beta stage, there is no timeline for when these sticker suggestions will be available to all users. Historically, WhatsApp tends to test new features for several weeks or even months before making them publicly available, keeping users on the edge of their seats for what's next.