Email responses now include emoji reactions
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Google has announced the addition of a new feature to Gmail: the ability to react to emails with emojis. While this feature is primarily for Gmail users, those using other email providers will experience a limited version.
The emoji reactions feature is integrated with Google Chat, a service deeply intertwined with Gmail for Workspace users. To enable and manage emoji reactions across Gmail and Google Chat for a Workspace organization, administrators should follow a few steps.
First, administrators must enable Google Chat for their organization in the Google Admin console. Emoji reactions are part of Google Chat features that appear also in Gmail conversations.
Next, administrators can manage custom emojis by enabling the custom emoji feature in Google Chat via the Admin console. This requires administrator activation and can be controlled through the Google Chat API or Admin settings. Administrators can set permissions, upload emoji images, and make these available for reactions in Chat and Gmail.
Lastly, administrators can control emoji usage policies by applying emoji blocking rules using Workspace security policies. Google Workspace allows blocking certain emojis or disabling emojis entirely through a managed list under the policy in Gmail, Chat, and Docs. This controls which emoji symbols are allowed when composing emails or reacting to messages.
Currently, email reactions in Gmail may not become as prevalent as expected due to default settings and potential restrictions in school or work settings. However, the addition of email reactions aims to make sending and replying to emails more like interacting with a chat on a typical messaging platform.
Email reactions in Gmail can help users quickly respond, acknowledge receipt of an email, and express themselves more authentically. The feature makes email interactions more similar to chat platforms like Google Chat or Slack.
It's important to note that reactions are turned off by default and can be restricted by Google Workspace administrators in school or work settings. Reactions won't work properly for those not using Gmail, those who have their conversation view turned off, or those who have an outdated version of the Gmail app. In such cases, Gmail will send a standalone email using the format "[Name] reacted via Gmail."
Administrators can manage emoji reactions through the Admin console > Apps > Gmail > End User Access > Emoji reactions. This new feature is a step towards modernizing email communications and making them more engaging and interactive.
- The new emoji reactions feature in Gmail is a testament to the ongoing integration of technology, making email interactions more fluid and interactive, similar to chat platforms.
- As this feature is primarily for Gmail users, those utilizing other email providers may encounter limited functionality due to the inherent technology differences between various email services.