WhatsApp has unveiled a suite of new features aimed at enhancing user experience across both personal and group messaging. The updates, part of its new monthly feature round-up, include group chat engagement tools, upgraded video calling options, and new ways to interact with messages and media.
Among the most notable changes is the introduction of an ‘online’ indicator in group chats, allowing users to see how many members are currently active in real time. This is aimed at boosting live engagement within large conversations.
The platform has also introduced highlight-based group notifications, enabling users to receive alerts only for @mentions, replies, or messages from saved contacts — a feature designed to reduce notification overload.
In a move to enhance scheduling and coordination, WhatsApp now supports event creation in both group and one-on-one chats, with added RSVP options such as “maybe” and the ability to invite a guest.
iPhone users are set to benefit from several iOS-specific updates, including a new document scanning tool, pinch-to-zoom functionality in video calls, and improved video quality for more stable and high-definition call experiences.
Additionally, tappable reactions allow users to quickly respond with the same emoji reaction as someone else in the chat. Users can now also add participants to ongoing one-on-one calls directly from their chat threads.
WhatsApp Channels, the platform’s broadcast feature, has also received improvements. Admins can now share short video updates (up to 60 seconds), and voice messages can be automatically transcribed, enhancing accessibility and engagement. Channel discovery is further simplified with QR code sharing, allowing followers to join with a single scan.
These updates aim to refine both usability and connectivity, signalling WhatsApp's ongoing efforts to maintain its position as a leader in global messaging۔
New WhatsApp Features Boost Group Chats, Video Calls and Channel Sharing
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