X Video Reactions: Tap to Try the New iPhone Trick
See how X’s new iPhone video reactions turn every call into a more expressive conversation.
Jun 3, 2026 (Updated Jun 3, 2026) - Written by Lorenzo Pellegrini
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X Introduces Video Reaction Option for iPhone, What Users Need to Know
X has introduced a video reaction option for iPhone users, adding a new way to respond during video interactions on the platform. The feature appears to use Apple’s built-in reactions system on supported iOS devices, which means the experience is tied to Apple’s video effect tools rather than a standalone X-only visual feature.
What the New Reaction Option Does
The reaction option lets users trigger animated effects during video calls or live video sessions on iPhone. Apple describes these reactions as 3D effects that fill the video frame and can be activated with hand gestures or through the video effects controls during a call. Supported effects include hearts, balloons, confetti, thumbs up, thumbs down, rain, fireworks, and lasers.
How It Works on iPhone
On iPhone, users can access the feature through the Video Effects menu during an active video call. According to Apple’s guidance, the reactions can be turned on or off from that menu, and users can also trigger effects with hand gestures held in view of the camera. The feature is part of Apple’s system-level video effects, not a separate app setting inside X.
- Hearts, made with two hands forming a heart sign
- Balloons, triggered with a victory sign
- Thumbs up, shown with one thumb raised
- Thumbs down, shown with one thumb lowered
- Rain, triggered by both thumbs down
- Confetti, triggered with two victory signs
- Fireworks, triggered with both thumbs up
- Lasers, triggered with the horns sign on both hands
Device and Software Requirements
Apple says the reactions feature requires macOS Sonoma 14 or later on Mac, and for Continuity Camera use it requires iPhone 12 or later. For iPhone video calls, the reactions option is available through Apple’s Video Effects controls, which means compatibility depends on Apple’s supported iOS and device setup.
Why This Matters for X Users
The addition gives iPhone users a more expressive way to engage in video communication. For creators, casual users, and live participants, reactions can make interactions feel more dynamic without needing to type or interrupt the conversation. Because the feature is built into Apple’s system tools, it may be especially convenient for users already accustomed to FaceTime-style effects.
What to Expect Next
If X continues leaning into richer video features, this could signal a broader push toward more expressive real-time interaction on the platform. For now, the main takeaway is simple: iPhone users can use Apple’s video reaction system while video chatting or streaming, giving them a faster and more visual way to communicate.
Conclusion
X’s new iPhone video reaction option adds a layer of visual expression to video use, but it works through Apple’s built-in effects system rather than a separate X-native tool. For users with compatible devices, it offers an easy way to make video interactions feel more immediate, playful, and engaging.
The real story is not that X added reactions, but that it outsourced its social layer to Apple’s system UI, turning what looks like a platform feature into a hardware-gated permission slip. That means X is less inventing expressive video than borrowing Apple’s attention mechanics, and inheriting Apple’s device hierarchy with it.
Can I turn these video reactions off?