WhatsApp gets 2GB file sharing, 512 people groups

Popular instant messaging platform WhatsApp has announced that it's adding new emoji reactions to the messaging app, along with file sharing size increase to 2GB and the ability to add up to 512 members to a group chat.

After announcing the Communities feature for WhatsApp, the app rolled new emoji reactions, reducing overload in groups, and ambitiously aiming to introduce more fun reactions for better expression while texting.

Moreover, protected with end-to-end encryption, users can now send files as large as 2GB, which previously was only 100MB. The company aims to make the platform more convenient and easy for communication between students and employees.

A display counter will also indicate how long uploading or downloading the file might take.

Catering to consistent user requests, WhatsApp has increased the number of people that can be added to a single group chat, to up to 512, ensuring private, safe and secure communities.

Last month the popular messaging app shared its vision of Communities striving to bring people together under one umbrella which they will be rolling out soon.

WhatsApp wanted to provide a structure and an organised platform to allow members with shared interests to come together, primarily those part of organisations such as a school or workplaces. The Communities feature will provide essential tools, especially to admins who could make public announcements in the group, along with larger video calls, file sharing and ability to remove unwanted messages.