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Why Can't I React on Instagram? A Guide to Emoji Reactions

22 August 2023
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Emoji reactions on Instagram have become a fun and interactive way to respond to direct messages. However, many users often wonder why they can't use certain reactions, like the laugh emoji, on their messages. This guide delves into the world of Instagram emoji reactions, offering insights and solutions to common issues.


Enabling Emoji Reactions on Instagram



Emoji reactions have become an integral part of Instagram's messaging experience. They offer a quick and expressive way to respond to messages without typing out a full response. But how do you enable these reactions, especially if you're new to the platform or have recently updated your app?


Firstly, it's essential to ensure that your Instagram app is up-to-date. Instagram frequently releases new features and improvements, and keeping your app updated ensures you have access to all the latest functionalities. To check for updates, visit your device's app store and search for Instagram. If an update is available, you'll see an option to update the app.


Once you've updated the app, accessing emoji reactions is straightforward. When viewing a direct message, simply double-tap on the message you want to react to. By default, this will send a heart emoji. However, if you want to choose a different emoji, press and hold the message. A selection of emojis will appear, allowing you to pick your desired reaction.


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Using Emoji Reactions on Mobile Devices



Using emoji reactions on mobile devices is a breeze. Whether you're on the go or lounging at home, you can quickly react to messages with just a few taps.

To react to a message:

  1. Open the chat where you received the message.
  2. Double-tap the specific message to send a heart emoji.
  3. If you wish to send a different emoji, press and hold the message. A selection of emojis will pop up, allowing you to choose your preferred reaction.


Customising your reactions is also possible. By pressing and holding a message, you can access a wider range of emojis. From here, you can select your favourites, ensuring they're always readily available for quick reactions.

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Using Emoji Reactions on a Computer



While Instagram was primarily designed as a mobile application, its web version has seen significant improvements over the years. For those who prefer using Instagram on a desktop or laptop, emoji reactions are just as accessible.

To react to a message on a computer:

  1. Navigate to the Instagram website and log in to your account.
  2. Click on the direct message icon, located at the top right corner of the screen.
  3. Open the conversation where you want to react.
  4. Hover over the message you wish to respond to. A small emoji icon will appear next to it.
  5. Click on the emoji icon, and a selection of reactions will pop up. Choose your desired emoji, and it will be sent as a reaction.


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Common Issues and Troubleshooting



As with any feature, users might occasionally encounter issues with Instagram emoji reactions. Whether it's the inability to send a reaction or the reactions not displaying correctly, there are common troubleshooting steps you can take.

  1. Update the App: Ensure you're using the latest version of Instagram. Outdated versions might lack certain features or have unresolved bugs.
  2. Check Internet Connection: A weak or unstable internet connection can cause features to malfunction. Ensure you're connected to a reliable network.
  3. Restart the App: Sometimes, simply closing and reopening the app can resolve minor glitches.
  4. Reinstall the App: If the problem persists, consider uninstalling and then reinstalling Instagram. This can help eliminate any corrupted files that might be causing the issue.


If you've faced issues with your account, such as it being disabled, the Instagram Restore Your Disabled Account service can assist in recovering your profile.


Changing and Customising Emoji Reactions


Instagram allows users to customise their quick emoji reactions, ensuring their favourite emojis are always at their fingertips.



To customise your emoji reactions:

  1. Open a direct message conversation.
  2. Press and hold any message to bring up the emoji reaction panel.
  3. Swipe right until you see the 'More' option, represented by three dots.
  4. Click on it, and you'll be presented with a wider range of emojis.
  5. From here, you can add or remove emojis from your quick reactions by selecting or deselecting them.


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Instagram's Integration with Facebook Messenger



With Facebook's acquisition of Instagram, there have been several integrations between the two platforms. One of the most notable is the merging of Instagram Direct Messages and Facebook Messenger. This integration has brought about several new features, including enhanced emoji reactions.

  1. Unified Messaging: Users can now send messages across both platforms seamlessly. This means you can react to an Instagram DM using Facebook Messenger and vice versa.
  2. Enhanced Features: The integration has introduced features like message effects, chat themes, and the ability to reply directly to specific messages.
  3. Custom Reactions: Just like on Facebook Messenger, Instagram now allows users to customise their quick reactions, offering a more personalised messaging experience.


For businesses and influencers, this integration means a broader reach, as they can now engage with their audience across two major platforms. The Instagram Support Growth service can assist brands in leveraging this integration for maximum engagement.


Final Thoughts

Emoji reactions on Instagram have revolutionised the way users engage in direct messaging. They offer a quick, expressive, and fun way to respond to messages, enhancing the overall messaging experience. Whether you're using Instagram on a mobile device or a computer, accessing and using emoji reactions is straightforward. However, as with any feature, it's essential to stay updated with the latest versions and be aware of common troubleshooting steps for a seamless experience. With the continuous integration of Instagram and Facebook Messenger, users can expect even more exciting features in the future, making the platform more interactive and user-friendly.


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