Long-time Facebook users all have that awkward moment when they get too lazy to comment, but are also hesitant to "Like" sad or embarrassing news.
Eleven years after Facebook was founded, the people behind it finally figured out something was missing: emotion.
To connect people better not just through words but through feelings too, Facebook rolls out six more reactions by long-pressing the "Like" button. They are basic emotions: love, smile, overjoyed, shocked, sad and angry.
"Today we are beginning to test Reactions - an extension of the Like button that gives people more ways to share their reaction to a post in a quick and easy way," wrote Facebook on its Newsroom.
The Reactions apply to user posts and pages alike, and there will be a breakdown of which responses each post receives. Facebook will also use Reactions to enhance every users' Newsfeed. The update is now on beta in Ireland and Spain.
Finally, life's less stellar moments are going to solicit more appropriate responses. Reactions are great conversation starters, especially for those who are hesitant or shy to say anything. The attribute is a great way to console people and make them feel that someone is there when it feels too cheesy or invasive to comment. Strangers or acquaintances may also get closer through the new feature.
As usual, Facebook is introducing the advancement in a specific region and to observe how it goes before sharing it to the world. There are no announcements yet on when the feature will be available globally.
Meanwhile, previous reports said that Facebook will introduce a dislike button. We can guess Facebook ditched the plan to avoid bullying incidents, which often happens on YouTube.
"For many years though, people have asked us to add a "dislike" button. Not every moment is a good moment, and sometimes you just want a way to express empathy. These are important moments where you need the power to share more than ever, and a Like might not be the best way to express yourself," said Mark Zuckerberg on his Facebook video post.
Lately, technology as a whole, is becoming more in touch with humans and emotions. Even gaming wearables are starting to involve physical action.
The new feature was leaked on Oct. 8 before it rolled out on Oct. 9.
"The site is about to launch a reactions feature that expresses multiple emotions, instead of the long-serving, lonely like," wrote Engadget, which first revealed the news.
Photo: Wicker Paradise | Flickr
