Gmail Will Now Let You React to Emails With Emojis - Here's how

Gmail is getting a playful and expressive new option: emoji reactions. Gmail emojis will begin to show in Rapid Release users’ emails as of April 29, 2025 or in Scheduled Release domains beginning May 13.

This allows users to respond briefly to an email, or indicate emotions such as gratitude, congratulations, or agreement with or without a reply.

Be it a thumbs-up to acknowledge receipt of a message or a party popper to acknowledge a work anniversary, emoji reactions are intended to make workplace interactions easier and more individualized.

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Emoji reactions will be turned off by default in Gmail and must be enabled by administrators in the Google Admin console. Once activated, the emoji feature will be accessible via Gmail’s mobile app and on the web. 

However, reactions won’t be available for emails sent to or from Google Group aliases.

This move aligns Gmail with other modern communication tools that emphasize speed and emotional tone, helping users respond more naturally and efficiently.

Google says the update is rolling out gradually, with full visibility expected within 15 days of each release phase. Admins and users can find additional setup and usage details in the Gmail Help Center.