Apple recently released a new feature for iOS 17 and MacOS Sonoma, called Reactions. Reactions fill the video frame with a 3D effect expressing how the person feels when they make certain gestures. To show a reaction, the user makes the appropriate hand gesture in view of the camera. If the gesture is held, the reaction will appear. This can sometimes be unexpected and confusing for participants using the Video Call service.

It is important to note that this is not part of the Video Call service and can appear in any video conferencing or calls with a video component (eg FaceTime) on the device. This includes Video Call consultations unless disabled on the iOS (iPhone or iPad) or MacOS device.

Reactions fill the video frame with a 3D effect expressing how the person feels when they make certain gestures.   In this example, the participant holds up a peace sign, which triggers the ballon reaction to appear in the call.	This is an image from the Apple information page showing the balloons reaction
To turn this feature off for iOS devices: Begin the Video Call Access the Control Centre by swiping down from the right top of the screen Tap on Effects Tap on Reactions to disable them (Reactions will be highlighted before you disable it, as in the example to the right) To turn this feature off for MacOS Sonoma: Begin the Video Call Click on Video in the menu bar Turn off Reactions