Why are recently used emojis not being saved Android 8/Galaxy 7

[Android Central Question]

My Galaxy 7 just updated to Android 8. Now when I use the Messages app, the clock icon says "No recently used emoticons". I used several emojis several times to no avail. (It also wiped out any emojis that were there before the software upgrade.) I appreciate any help! (First time questioner - Thanks).