Facebook introduces 'Reactions' emoticons

The feature will allow people to express themselves better through six new emoticons created to make the 'Like' button more engaging.

Social networking site Facebook has confirmed the launch of the 'Reactions' feature for its 'Like' button. Facebook's founder and CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, confirms that it is testing the feature in two markets, namely Spain and Ireland, before rolling it out in other countries. The 'Like' button has been a part of Facebook for a long time now; billions of 'Likes' are made every day as a means of users' expressions. For many years though, people have asked Facebook to add a 'dislike' button, hence this feature is likely an improved version of the 'dislike' button that was expected from the social networking site since long.

Zuckerberg believes that not every moment is a good moment, and sometimes one needs just a way to express emotions in a way that the mere 'Like' button does not cater to. Thus, the six new emoticons - Haha, Love, Yay, Wow, Sad and Angry - have been introduced. The feature is expected to make the sharing experience 'simple and respectful'.

“'Reactions' gives you new ways to express love, awe, humour and sadness. It's not a dislike button, but it does give you the power to easily express sorrow and empathy, in addition to delight and warmth. You'll be able to express these reactions by long pressing or hovering over the Like button,” he explained.