Emojis perfectly convey the context behind the text. As the palette is huge, ranging from smiling faces to tender flowers, animals, foods, activities, and objects, earlier users needed to search for the one they wanted to send. However, over time, platforms such as Instagram have introduced a feature where users can just react through emojis with a tap on any text. However, have you been trying to send your reaction to someone’s direct message on Instagram but the emoji seems to be not working? Such instances do occur occasionally. In today’s blog, we will guide you on how to fix this.
How to Fix Emoji Reactions for Direct Messages Not Working on Instagram
Emoji reactions adorn the conversation and make them appear more lively & visually appealing. Hence, they’ve been in trend for quite some time now when it comes to modern-day text messaging. However, if for some reason, you can’t react to messages with emojis on Instagram, the following could be the reasons:
- Poor Internet Connection
- App Bugs and Glitches
- Using Instagram Lite
Quick Answer
To fix this issue, clear out cache data and update the Instagram app following the steps below:
1. Open Google Play Store and search for Instagram.
2. Tap on Update.
Now that we know the possible reasons behind the error, let’s fix it.
Tip: Make sure that the user to whose message you’re trying to react via emoji has not blocked or restricted you on Instagram.
Suggestion: React to someone else’s message and see if you can do that. If not, try using the Instagram web version.
Method 1: Basic Troubleshooting Methods
Let us start with some basic ways that might easily fix the error within almost no time and hustle.
Method 1A: Restart App, then Device
Firstly, restart the app as doing so resolves any form of minor temporary glitches that could be causing the discussed issue. If that does not help much, restart your phone.
Method 1B: Wait for Server Uptime
You need to make sure that the Instagram servers in your region are up and running smoothly. Due to heavy traffic, the servers sometimes suffer downtime issues or undergo maintenance, which could affect the app’s performance, until fixed. Check the status on Downdetector for Instagram and if there are multiple reported issues, wait for some time.
Method 2: Troubleshoot Internet Connectivity
A weak or unstable internet connection can cause many floating features to not work properly. Make sure you’re connected to a strong Wi-Fi or mobile data signal before using Instagram to ensure the emoji reactions function as expected. You can refer to or guide on How to Boost Internet Speed on your Android Phone to resolve any possible network conflicts on the device.
iPhone users can refer to our blog on How Do I Fix Slow Internet on My iPhone.
Method 3: Clear Cache Data
Applications when used store cache data and files on the device, which may affect the app’s functionality when corrupt. Clearing them out can be a good decision to fix the discussed issue. Follow the steps below:
1. Open Settings on the device and tap on Storage.
2. Scroll down and tap on Instagram, followed by Storage.
3. Tap on CLEAR CACHE.
Method 4: Force Stop Instagram and Restart
Force Stopping the app allows you to forcefully terminate a running application. It helps clear out all glitches when an app becomes unresponsive to its features. Follow the steps:
1. Open Settings on the device.
2. Tap on Apps & notifications, followed by Installed apps.
3. Select Instagram from the list and tap on FORCE STOP.
4. Now launch Instagram again and see if emoji reactions for direct messages are working now.
Also Read: How to See Unsent Messages on Instagram
Method 5: Update Instagram, then Device
App updates often include bug fixes and improvements. In case the discussed issue is triggered due to bugs, updating the app could help fix the same and ensure that the app functions in a stable form.
1. Open the Google Play Store and search for Instagram.
2. Tap on the Update button, if there is any update available.
Once the app is updated, also update the device.
3. In the device Settings, go to System and tap on System Update.
4. Tap on Check for update. If there is any, download and install it.
Check if you are able to react to messages via emojis.
Method 6: Relogin to Your Account
If the error persists, you can try logging out, and then logging back in. Doing so can refresh your account settings and resolve minor issues. Follow the steps:
1. Open Instagram and tap your profile picture in the bottom right corner.
2. Tap the three lines icon at the top right corner and select Settings and privacy from the menu.
3. Scroll down and select Log out all accounts or just your current account as per your preference.
4. Log in with your credentials once again and check if the error is fixed.
Also Read: Why Do Some Snapchat Messages Not Disappear?
Method 7: Reinstall Instagram
If none of the methods helped you resolve the issue, we suggest you uninstall and reinstall the app again. Doing so removes all the damaged and corrupt files and replaces them with fresh files.
1. In the app drawer, tap and hold the Instagram icon.
2. Drag it to the Uninstall option and release.
3. Now reinstall Instagram from the Google Play Store.
4. Login with your credentials and check if the error is fixed now.
Why Can’t I React to Messages with Emojis on Instagram on iOS? How to Fix
It could be the same reasons as the Android app such as poor internet connection or outdated app because of which you are unable to send reactions via emojis to someone’s messages on Instagram on iOS. Update the app and the OS or reinstall Instagram to fix the issue.
How to Enable Emoji Reactions on Instagram?
You do not need to manually enable emoji reactions. It is a feature that is automatically available to all after the update. Refer to our guide on How to React to Instagram Messages with Custom Emojis to know more.
We hope our guide helped you fix the Instagram emoji reactions for direct messages not working issue. If you have any queries or suggestions, do let us know in the comments section below. Stay tuned to TechCult to find out solutions to more such app-related errors.
