WhatsApp is making changes so you can now save contacts directly to your WhatsApp account, independent of the phone's contact book. This could simplify phone migration and backups as well as messaging contact management to an extent.
WhatsApp beta has added Meta AI capabilities through a shortcut button located in the Chats screen. The AI chatbot can answer questions via text, but also analyze and even edit your photos.
WhatsApp is rolling out a new feature which allows you to transcribe voice messages. Select a voice note, press the three dots, choose transcribe, and you will see a text version of the voice note without having to open it.
WhatsApp is introducing new features on mobile and desktop apps, including screen sharing functionality, support for up to 32 people on video calls, and the MLow codec to improve call reliability and clarity.
A hot potato: Elon Musk is in the middle of a public fight with WhatsApp on his X platform, claiming that the messaging service sucks up user data daily and uses it for targeted advertising. WhatsApp boss Will Cathcart has responded by claiming this is untrue, leading to arguments from all sides.
WhatsApp has added a new 'secret code' privacy feature for locked chats. Typing your secret code in the search bar will reveal the otherwise hidden conversations.
In context: Google, Meta, and other message service operators have long fought to convince Apple to make the advanced features of iMessage interoperable with competitors. The Cupertino giant hasn't budged so far, but European regulators could force its hand if Google and a few telecoms get their way.
WhatsApp is rolling out the option to run two accounts simultaneously on the same mobile device. A second phone number via multi-SIM or eSIM is required. Head to Settings, Account and Add Account.
The latest WhatsApp beta introduces the ability to add several accounts to your phone. Open the app, go to Settings > Account and you will see the new "Add account" button.
WhatsApp has launched a redesigned and improved experience for Mac users. The new native app adds video group calling with up to 8 people and up to 32 people on audio calls.
WhatsApp instant video messages work within chats just like voice messages. To activate, tap the mic button once to switch to video mode, press and hold or swipe up to lock and record up to 60 seconds.
WhatsApp has introduced the ability to silence unknown callers and a "privacy checkup," which is a step-by-step guide to your privacy settings within the app.
This week a sizable number of WhatsApp beta users have reported getting locked out of the app apparently due to a bug in the update mechanism. Meta released a new beta version today which solves the issue.
The latest version of WhatsApp adds settings that allow admins to control who can join a group and introduces the option to see which groups you have in common with your contacts.