Google Docs has gained support for the emoji reaction feature. This feature allows users to respond to text with simple symbols instead of having to write long comments.
Through its announcement Google said the feature supports all the emojis available in the latest release, Emoji 14.0. The version already includes gender neutral options and goofy symbols like melting faces and biting lips.
In the post the gif shared Google shows how the react emoji feature will appear as a third option next to "Add Comment" and "Suggest Edits" when the user highlights text.
Users can also type to search the emoji catalog. Google says these responses provide a more relaxed alternative to comments. Google also promises no admin controls on this feature.
The emoji reaction feature comes in Google Docs as the service is undergoing a major overhaul and evolving from a word processor to more of a remote work collaboration tool.
Other recently announced new Google Docs features include markdown support, a new pageless layout, and the ability to seamlessly compose emails from documents.
Google says emoji reactions will be on by default and cannot be disabled. They're rolling out now for quick release domains, but will be available to most Google Docs users after April 20th.
The emoji reaction feature will be available to Google Workspace Essentials, Business Starter, Business Standard, Business Plus, Enterprise Standard, and Enterprise Plus customers.