What is the purpose of using bbcode functions with smilie replace in PHP?

When using BBCode functions with smilie replace in PHP, the purpose is to allow users to input text with emoticons or smilies that will be converted into corresponding images when displayed on a webpage. This adds visual appeal and enhances user experience by providing a more interactive and engaging interface.

function bbcode_smilie_replace($text) {
    $smilies = array(
        ':)' => '<img src="smiley.png" alt=":)" />',
        ':(' => '<img src="sad.png" alt=":(" />'
    );

    foreach ($smilies as $smilie => $image) {
        $text = str_replace($smilie, $image, $text);
    }

    return $text;
}

$input_text = "Hello, how are you? :)";
$output_text = bbcode_smilie_replace($input_text);
echo $output_text;