The new WhatsApp for Android version 2.12.441 that is gradually being released to users finally brings an updated set of emojis. Users will now have access to a number of new emoji symbols such as unicorns, a box of popcorn, a bottle of champagne, racing cars, medals and even a new emoji in the faces tab. Speaking of tabs, there will now be more tabs (making it easier to find what you're looking for), with eight tabs showcasing the latest sports, flags and a separate tab for drinks.
The change comes as the Android app begins supporting both Unicode 7 and 8, bringing the app on par with iOS users who have had access to it since iOS 9.1. The problem for now remains the Google Play Store, which has yet to show the 2.12.441 version of the app. For those who can't wait, though: You can simply head over to Android Police, download the .apk files from apkmirror, and install them over your existing app.
Curiously, the version available on the Google Play Store is tagged as 2.12.449, but it still doesn't have the new emojis. So, the only way to get the new emojis right away is from apkmirror. Since the latest version on the Play Store, which was updated on February 11 in India, represents 2.12.449, and the new emojis on apkmirror are tagged as 2.12.441, getting the new emojis update would just mean downgrading to an older version. Hopefully, the new emoji update will be released with a new version number (say 2.12.450) on the Play Store soon, making it easier for users to update their app.
Finally, it is worth noting that WhatsApp recently increased its number of members from 100 to 256. This is certainly good news, but it is also a good indicator of business activity, which came to light after the application became free for everyone.
