WhatsApp, one of the world’s most popular messaging apps, is gearing up to introduce several new features aimed at enhancing user experience. According to WABetaInfo, these updates are currently under development and will soon be available to beta testers. Here’s a detailed look at what’s coming:
Favourites Chat Filter
A significant addition to WhatsApp’s functionality is the new Favourites chat filter. This feature, part of the beta for Android version 2.24.12.7, is designed to help users easily access their most frequently used chats by adding them to a favourites list. This filter will allow users to separate their regular contacts from others, effectively upgrading the existing chat pinning feature, which is currently limited to three pinned chats.
How It Works
The Favourites chat filter will add a new option to WhatsApp’s user interface. Presently, the app offers three main categories: All, Unread, and Groups. With the update, a fourth category, Favourites, will be introduced. Users can manually add chats to their favourites by selecting the “Add to Favourites” option, which is anticipated to appear at the bottom of the chat page.
Once a chat is added to the Favourites list, users will have the flexibility to remove, rearrange, and add chats as needed. This enhancement will streamline the process of finding and accessing important conversations, making the app more user-friendly and efficient.
Unread Messages and Group Filters
In addition to the Favourites chat filter, WhatsApp is also testing other filters to improve chat management. These include unread messages and group-specific filters, which will help users quickly locate specific types of chats. These filters are expected to further refine the user experience by offering more organized and accessible chat options.
Upcoming Community Features
WhatsApp is not stopping at chat filters. The company is also working on refining its Communities feature. One of the planned updates includes the ability to create reminders for upcoming events within communities. This addition aims to help community admins keep members informed and engaged by allowing them to set up notifications for scheduled events. This feature will ensure that community members are aware of important dates and activities, fostering better communication and coordination within groups.
Extended Voice Message Duration in Status Updates
Another notable update is the increase in the maximum duration of voice messages in Status updates. Currently, users are limited to uploading 30-second voice messages. The upcoming update will extend this limit to one minute, providing more flexibility for users who prefer voice messages over text.
Rollout for Beta Testers
These features are currently under development and will soon be rolled out to testers who are registered through the Google Play Beta Program. Once the developers finalize these features, beta testers will have the opportunity to use and provide feedback on them. This testing phase is crucial for ensuring the new functionalities work seamlessly and meet user expectations before a broader release.
Conclusion
WhatsApp’s forthcoming updates are set to significantly enhance the user experience by introducing practical and user-friendly features. The Favourites chat filter, unread messages, and group filters, along with the enhanced Communities feature and extended voice message duration, demonstrate WhatsApp’s commitment to continuous improvement and user satisfaction. Keep an eye out for these updates as they progress through the beta testing phase and eventually become available to all users.
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Source : WhatsApp to bring new Favourites chat filter: How does it work – India Today