Facebook is adding an adorable new emoji to its digital roaster to allow users to show support during the COVID-19 pandemic.
With its tiny yellow arms wrapped tightly around a big red heart, the new "Hug" emoji is set to roll out on Facebook worldwide this week. In addition, users will also be able to send a "Pulsating Heart" reaction on Facebook Messenger.
Facebook Spokesperson Alexandru Voica tweeted about the new "Care" reactions on April 17, stating that the reactions were created, "as a way for people to share their support with one another during this unprecedented time."
We’re launching new Care reactions on @facebookapp and @Messenger as a way for people to share their support with one another during this unprecedented time.
— Alexandru Voica (@alexvoica) April 17, 2020
We hope these reactions give people additional ways to show their support during the #COVID19 crisis. pic.twitter.com/HunGyK8KQw
In order to activate the pulsating heart, Voica writes that you simply press and hold down the heart reaction to view the new one. To change it back, you need to press and hold the new Reaction again.
The new "Hug" care reaction is slated to appear on timelines this week, and Voica notes that, "you can use it to react to posts, comments, images, videos, or other content on the app and Facebook.com."
