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Tag: whatsapp

  • WhatsApp starts testing AR call effects and filters on Android

    WhatsApp starts testing AR call effects and filters on Android

    WhatsApp is rolling out new features to its Android beta users. If you’re enrolled in the Google Play Beta Program, you’ll be getting a new update that adds AR call effects and filters so that you can try them out before they go live for everyone.

    Spotted by WaBetaInfo, the new features are only rolling out to Android users. WhatsApp is working on so many new features and improvements that is rather hard to keep track of everything until they make it into the beta testing.

    We reported about WhatsApp’s plans to add AR effects and filters to its app last month, but at that time these weren’t available for users, not even those enrolled in the beta program and running WhatsApp beta on their phones.

    The latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.16.7 marks that addition of both these new features. Although AR call effects and filters might only be available to select users at first, WhatsApp usually expands availability over the coming days or weeks.

    The newly added AR effects allow users to enhance their video calling experience by personalizing their calls. Currently, it’s possible to enable dynamic facial filters like the ability to smooth skin appearance and a low-light mode that improves visibility in darker environments.

    Besides that, the updated beta version of WhatsApp features a background editing tool, which makes it easier to blur the background or customize it during group calls. It’s also possible to customize the background by simply choosing to use one of the default ones added by WhatsApp during calls.

    Although it didn’t take WhatsApp too long to roll out AR effects and filters to the beta program, we might have to wait quite a bit for the app to make these available to the general public. Stay tuned for more on this one.

  • WhatsApp could add AirDrop-like file sharing feature to its iOS app

    WhatsApp could add AirDrop-like file sharing feature to its iOS app

    WhatsApp has been working on bringing a file-sharing feature to Android users for a few months now. The first proof that WhatsApp plans to introduce this functionality dates from April, but only the Android platform was mentioned in relation to this specific feature.

    Due to the limitations of the iOS ecosystem, bringing the same file-sharing feature to Apple fans would have required a slightly different strategy. Thankfully, WhatsApp seems to have found the right formula to allow users to share files through its app, similar to what AirDrop allows users to do.

    The folks at WABetaInfo discovered in the latest WhatsApp beta for iOS 24.15.10.70 update from the TestFlight app that the same file sharing feature tested on Android is likely to be added to the iOS app too.

    With the new feature iOS users will be able to share files with people nearby using WhatsApp’s iOS app. However, the feature works slightly differently on iOS, as users are required to scan a QR code in order to start receiving the shared files, whereas Android is using a nearby device detection method that doesn’t involve any extra steps to share files.

    The file-sharing feature is expected to work across different platforms no matter what type of phone/tablet users have. If the implementation of the feature remains the same as in the beta version of WhatsApp, iOS users will have to follow one or more extra steps to start sharing files

    According to the report, the AirDrop-like file sharing feature is still in the early stages of development, so WhatsApp can still significantly change its implementation approach.

    Obviously, there’s a slim chance that WhatsApp won’t add the ability to share files with nearby people at all, or at least not in the near future. We’ll be keeping an eye on this one since it seems to be one of the more important features that WhatsApp is still missing.

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  • WhatsApp beta adds the ability to transfer chat history sans Google Drive

    WhatsApp beta adds the ability to transfer chat history sans Google Drive

    WhatsApp announced many new features and improvements over the weekend meant to enhance the call experience. The ability to share screens with audio and the increase in video call participants are among the most important changes coming to WhatsApp users this week.

    However, if you’re also enrolled in the beta program, you’re getting even more new features. Even though they might not work properly at first, it’s always nice to get a sneak peek into the future.

    The latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.13.6 adds the ability to transfer chat history without using Google Drive. Spotted by WABetaInfo, the new feature doesn’t seem to be ready for testing yet, so even if you’re a member of the beta program, you might not have access to it yet.

    Thankfully, the folks at WABetaInfo discovered the feature and even took a screenshot that reveals WhatsApp does indeed plan to remove the need for have Google Drive to transfer chat history to another phone.

    Although this feature, which seems to be in development, has only been spotted in the Android version of the app, it’s unlikely that iOS users won’t be getting a similar one sooner or later.

    WhatsApp already offers users the option to transfer chat history from their older phones, but the process is not that user-friendly regardless of whether you’re using an Android or iOS device. The new feature is meant to streamline the process of transferring chat history by removing at least one step.

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  • WhatsApp rolling out feature that lets you set HD quality as the default for media

    WhatsApp rolling out feature that lets you set HD quality as the default for media

    WhatsApp, one of the most popular encrypted messaging apps, is gearing up for a significant update that could change the way users share media. The app is rolling out an HD quality default setting, a change that could make high-resolution images and videos the new norm.

    This upcoming feature builds upon the app’s previous enhancements in media sharing. In August, WhatsApp introduced an HD image sharing option, followed shortly by HD video sharing. While HD doesn’t equate to uncompressed, it significantly improves the resolution of photos and videos compared to WhatsApp’s standard compression, which can often reduce media quality.

    Previously, users had to rely on workarounds like attaching media as documents to bypass the compression, adding unnecessary steps to the sharing process. The new default setting eliminates the need for such workarounds, making sharing high-quality media seamless and intuitive.

    According to reports from Android Police and beta users, the new default setting has been spotted in WhatsApp’s beta version 2.24.13.10. This suggests that the feature is in its final stages of testing and could be released globally soon. Users can check if they have the option in the app’s settings under Storage and data > Media upload quality.

    While this feature is a welcome addition for many users, WhatsApp does caution that HD quality files can be significantly larger than standard quality files, potentially consuming more bandwidth and storage space. However, for users who prioritize image and video quality, this tradeoff might be worth it.

    The introduction of an HD quality default setting aligns with WhatsApp’s continuous efforts to enhance its user experience and stay competitive. Looking ahead, it’s possible that WhatsApp will further expand its HD media features, however, there’s no official word on when or if these features will be implemented.

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  • WhatsApp testing the ability to pin up to two channels

    WhatsApp testing the ability to pin up to two channels

    WhatsApp, the global chat app owned by Meta, is ever-changing and evolving by adding new user features. Lately, it was found that WhatsApp was enhancing its user experience with a new feature currently being tested in the Android Beta version 2.24.13.3. Select beta testers are now able to pin up to two of their favorite channels to the top of their channels list, making it easier to stay connected and informed with the content they value most.

    Before, users had to scroll through their entire channels list to find their most frequently visited ones. However, this newest update has been reported to address this issue by allowing users to select and pin up to two channels to the top, making them easily accessible whenever they open the updates tab.

    In addition to pinning, users can now perform bulk actions on multiple channels simultaneously, such as muting, marking as read, or even pinning them together. This streamlined functionality is a welcome addition for users managing numerous channels, where taking these actions could become time-consuming.

    Users can easily access their favorite channels without scrolling through their entire list by pinning their favorite channels, especially when there is more than one. This not only saves time but also improves the overall navigation experience within the app. This enhanced accessibility encourages users to stay more informed and engaged with their preferred channels, as they are more likely to see and interact with the latest updates, which would be more visible if they are pinned.

    The new multiple pinning feature is currently available to a limited number of beta testers who have installed the latest updates of WhatsApp beta for Android from the Google Play Store. However, it is expected that WhatsApp will gradually roll it out to more users in the coming days, offering users a new way of organizing their WhatsApp channels.

  • WhatsApp beta tests smarter status update ranking

    WhatsApp beta tests smarter status update ranking

    WhatsApp, the popular Meta-owned messaging, never seems to rest on its laurels. Always testing new features, the company recently revamped the status updates tray in their Android beta, giving it a sleek new look with bigger thumbnails and a more modern layout. But the changes don’t stop there – WhatsApp appears to be doubling down on enhancing the status update experience, with a particular focus on making sure you see updates from the people you care about most.

    A new feature currently being tested in the Android beta, dubbed “ranked status updates,” aims to prioritize updates from your most important contacts. This means that instead of seeing updates in strictly chronological order, WhatsApp will intelligently reorder them. This is based on several factors, including how often you interact with each contact, whether they’re pinned to the top of your chats, and how recently you’ve messaged them.

    Even status updates that are about to expire will get a boost, ensuring you don’t miss out on those fleeting moments. Notably, official WhatsApp updates will remain at the top of the list, guaranteeing you never miss important announcements from the app itself.

    Keen-eyed users may notice the absence of timestamps on status updates. This is a deliberate design choice, as WhatsApp shifts its focus from displaying the newest updates to showcasing the most relevant ones. Reportedly, all the data used for ranking updates remains on your device, so your privacy is not compromised.

    However, this new feature isn’t without its quirks. If you reinstall WhatsApp or link a new device, the ranking system essentially resets, meaning it will take some time for the app to relearn your preferences. Additionally, if you use WhatsApp on multiple devices, the order of status updates may vary slightly due to differences in synced chat histories.

    As of now, the ranked status updates feature is only available to a limited number of beta testers. But if it proves successful, it’s likely to be rolled out to a wider audience in the near future. So keep an eye on those WhatsApp updates – your status feed could soon become a whole lot more personalized and engaging.

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  • WhatsApp might soon start asking you for your birth year

    WhatsApp might soon start asking you for your birth year

    A new change is coming to WhatsApp due to certain U.S. states passing age verification laws. The changes are aimed at protecting children online, and different laws and legislation bills are currently in progress.

    Now, Meta is getting WhatsApp ready for these changes. In a recent beta version for Android (v.2.24.12.25) of the app, WABetaInfo discovered code that is meant to make WhatsApp ask you for your birth year. The prompt warns that the year cannot be changed later, and you need to provide it to continue using WhatsApp.

    For now, this feature is not available to the public. Although there’s no official reason given for this feature, it’s most likely connected to the laws that are currently in the works in the U.S.

    It seems that Meta will not be showing your birth year within WhatsApp, and this prompt seems to only be for compliance with local laws.

    It’s probable this prompt will appear to you if you live in a state with age verification laws (or you’re visiting).

    These are currently the US states where verification laws have been passed:

    • Alabama
    • Florida
    • Georgia
    • Idaho
    • Indiana
    • Kansas
    • Kentucky
    • Nebraska
    • Oklahoma
    • South Carolina
    • South Dakota
    • Tennessee

    This means when this update rolls out publicly, you’ll probably see the prompt if you live in one of them. Of course, as with anything currently in beta, we don’t know exactly when this feature will be officially released. However, it’s probably going to be sooner rather than later so that WhatsApp can be compliant with the legislation.

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  • WhatsApp is currently testing a feature that makes sharing between Channels easier

    WhatsApp is currently testing a feature that makes sharing between Channels easier

    WhatsApp is one of those social apps that you can expect to be constantly evolving, and the latest beta update for Android (version 2.24.12.9) is no exception. Available through the Google Play Beta Program, this update offers a sneak peek into several features aimed at making content sharing on WhatsApp Channels smoother and more efficient.

    Building on recent updates that simplified forwarding channel updates, WhatsApp is now exploring ways to make it easier for channel owners to share a wider variety of content directly from their personal chats. This means users will soon be able to forward messages, photos, videos, and GIFs directly to their channels without the time-consuming workaround of saving and uploading content separately.

    WhatsApp is also working on expanding this functionality to allow users to share content from other apps directly to their channels. While these features are not yet available in the current beta version, they promise to speed up content creation for channel owners and make it easier for them to keep their followers engaged with fresh and relevant updates.

    This latest beta update aligns with WhatsApp’s ongoing commitment to enhancing channel user experience. By simplifying the process of sharing content from both personal chats and external apps, WhatsApp is making it easier for channel owners to deliver timely and entertaining updates with minimal effort.

    While the full rollout of these features is still to be determined, the beta update indicates WhatsApp intends to roll this potential very soon. However, as with any beta version, these features may undergo further refinement before being made available to the wider user base. That said, this feature’s potential benefits for both channel owners and followers is clear. By streamlining the sharing process, WhatsApp is aiming to make channels an even more valuable tool for the app’s large user base.

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  • WhatsApp working on enhancing the drawing editor with an upcoming color chooser feature

    WhatsApp working on enhancing the drawing editor with an upcoming color chooser feature

    WhatsApp, the popular messaging app, continuously tests potential features to improve user experience. In a recent beta update for Android (version 2.24.12.6) available on the Google Play Store, we get a sneak peek into an exciting new feature that’s set to enhance the app’s photo and video editing capabilities.

    This latest feature builds upon a previous update (2.24.10.23) that introduced a redesigned drawing editor. This revamp focused on user-friendliness by relocating the brush and color tools to a bottom bar for easier access, particularly on larger screens. Now, WhatsApp is taking another step forward by working on a color chooser tool that will be integrated into the drawing editor in a future update.

    As noted by WABetaInfo, a reliable source for WhatsApp updates while still in beta, this innovative tool will empower users to select a specific color directly from the image they are editing. This means that users will no longer be constrained by the current selection of 24 preset colors. Instead, they can tap into the full spectrum of colors within the image, enabling precise color matching and coordination.

    The potential benefits of this feature could be great. Imagine perfectly matching the color of a flower in a photo to the text you overlay on it, or seamlessly blending the colors of a sunset into a drawing. This level of customization will unlock new creative possibilities for users, allowing them to craft visually stunning and personalized content.

    The color chooser feature is particularly exciting for WhatsApp users who use the status feature to share visual updates with their friends. With this tool, users can create more polished and aesthetically pleasing status updates that truly reflect their individual style. Whether it’s adding a splash of color to a selfie or creating a themed status with perfectly coordinated elements, the color chooser will give users the tools to express themselves visually.

    While the color chooser is still under development and not yet available to the general public, it is expected to roll out in the future app update.

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  • Meta to bring more color to WhatsApp with new chat theme customization on iOS

    Meta to bring more color to WhatsApp with new chat theme customization on iOS

    Meta-owned WhatsApp boasts over 3 billion monthly active users, making it one of the most popular messaging apps globally. Despite its popularity, users have longed for more customization options, a gap often filled by competitors like Telegram. However, it seems change is on the horizon, as reports suggest WhatsApp is working on a new customization feature. In the latest WhatsApp beta for iOS, the go-to source for WhatsApp updates, WABetaInfo found that Meta is tinkering with a new default chat theme feature.

    The attached screenshot shows a section for selecting the app’s default chat theme. Similar to the branding color feature found in earlier WhatsApp beta updates for iOS, users will be able to choose a new color and wallpaper for the default chat theme from a selection of five different options:

    • Green
    • Blue
    • Black
    • Pink
    • Purple

    Once you choose a color, it will automatically become the default chat theme, adjusting both the wallpaper and bubble color accordingly. In addition to tweaking chat bubbles and wallpaper, WhatsApp is also working on a new feature to control the app’s accent color. If launched, iOS users can switch the in-app button color from green to one of the previously mentioned shades.

    Furthermore, choosing a default chat theme will only change your own interface and won’t affect how other chats appear. It is important to note that these features are still in development, so it may take Meta several months before they are available to the public – if the company decides to proceed with them at all. It is unclear at this time if Android users will also receive the same features.

    In other news, WhatsApp is rolling out support for longer voice messages in status updates and could soon let users generate AI-powered profile photos.

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  • WhatsApp will soon allow you to preview photos and videos within pinned messages

    WhatsApp will soon allow you to preview photos and videos within pinned messages

    WhatsApp, the popular messaging app, is continuously testing new features for its large user base, and it usually does that by pushing them first to its beta app available through the Google Play Store. Recently, according to WABetaInfo, the company has been testing a new preview feature for pinned messages that can be found in the latest beta version 2.24.11.12. This new update aims to make it easier for users to manage and access important messages within their chats.

    This feature was first spotted in a previous beta version, 2.24.7.27, and it has now progressed to public testing. By incorporating a thumbnail preview for pinned messages, WhatsApp is taking another step towards enhancing user interaction and organization within chats. This means users will be able to quickly identify the content of a pinned message without having to open it fully, streamlining their messaging experience.

    The thumbnail preview will be particularly useful for media messages, including photos and videos. Users can now instantly recognize the media content directly within the pinned message preview area, saving time and effort. Whether it’s a funny meme, an important document, or a memorable video, the new preview feature is designed to make navigating through pinned messages a breeze.

    This enhancement builds upon previous updates, such as the ability to pin multiple messages and the 24-hour, 7-day, and 30-day pinning durations. While the preview feature is currently available to select beta testers, it is expected to roll out to more users in the coming days. If you’re eager to try it out, you can join the WhatsApp beta program on the Google Play Store and install the latest update. However, do note that availability for this program is almost always full to capacity, however, your mileage may vary.

    WhatsApp continues to innovate and refine its features to cater to the needs of its vast user base. The new preview feature for pinned messages is a testament to the company’s commitment to making messaging more seamless and efficient.

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  • WhatsApp could add a new sticker-related feature very soon

    WhatsApp could add a new sticker-related feature very soon

    WhatsApp is testing new features all the time, but the best news is many users have access to new functionalities if they’re willing to enroll in the beta program. One such new feature will make it easier to find stickers and sticker packs in WhatsApp.

    Spotted recently by WABetaInfo, the feature adds a text field to the sticker keyboard, allowing users to search for stickers from the dedicated store by simply writing what they’re looking for.

    This works both for individual stickers and packs, but the new feature has only been spotted in the Android version of WhatsApp beta for the time being. Specifically, the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.11.5 includes this feature, but since it’s still in development, it might not show up for beta testers yet.

    The ability to search for stickers is a continuation of the work that WhatsApp has been putting into making stickers one of the app’s highlights. A few updates ago, WhatsApp released a feature that introduces new sticker creation shortcuts, allowing users to generate personalized and AI-powered stickers.

    The newly discovered sticker-related feature is likely to be rolled out to everyone in the coming weeks since it doesn’t seem to be too complicated to implement. Hopefully, it will be available on both iOS and Android platforms.

  • WhatsApp’s new status update tray with previews is rolling out more widely in beta

    WhatsApp’s new status update tray with previews is rolling out more widely in beta

    WhatsApp, the popular Meta-owned messaging app, is always tinkering with updates to improve the experience for its global community of users. In its newest test, WhatsApp is experimenting with how users view status updates.

    Previously, to see someone’s status, you had to tap it, and then hope for the best. However, the new update adds a preview right in the status update tray, giving you the opportunity beforehand to decide whether it is worth it to engage. The preview feature definitely makes checking statuses more convenient and visual, because, instead of seeing a profile picture, you get a glimpse of what the update actually is. If it doesn’t seem interesting, you can simply move on to the next one.

    This update has been in the works for a little while. Back in February, the folks at WABetaInfo reported WhatsApp was working on it. However, it seems that after some testing, they’re starting to make it available to the public.

    Right now, only some beta testers are getting to see the changes, but they should expand to more users over the coming weeks. The new interface for the status updates tray is included in the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.10.10 update, available on the Google Play Store.

    This update is a good example of why user feedback is important. As noted by WABetaInfo in its coverage, after a previous status update that changed how things were displayed, many people weren’t happy. It seems WhatsApp listened and found a solution that makes things easier while still keeping the new look and feel of the status section.

    If you’re part of the beta program, which is quite limited and almost always full to capacity, you might already have the new status tray. WhatsApp says it will be rolling this update out to even more beta testers in upcoming weeks, with wider availability to follow after the testing phase.

  • WhatsApp is working on an option to stop notifications when someone reacts to your status updates

    WhatsApp is working on an option to stop notifications when someone reacts to your status updates

    WhatsApp is introducing a new feature that will allow users to manage notifications for reactions to their status updates. This means that in the future, you’ll be able to choose whether or not you want to receive an alert when someone reacts to your WhatsApp status update.

    For those unfamiliar, WhatsApp statuses are temporary updates that disappear after 24 hours, similar to Instagram Stories. Users can share photos, videos, text, and voice notes as their status. They can also react to other users’ statuses with emojis. With this new feature, in the latest version of WhatsApp Beta for Android (v2.24.9.29), users will now have the option to disable notifications for these reactions, giving them more control over the alerts they receive on the platform.

    This change comes amid a growing trend of messaging apps giving users more control over their notification settings. Many users find constant notifications to be distracting and overwhelming, and they appreciate the ability to customize their experience. With this update, WhatsApp is following suit and offering its users more control over how they use the app.

    It’s important to note that this feature is still under development, so it’s not yet available to all WhatsApp users. However, the fact that it’s being tested suggests that it could be rolled out more widely in a future update. So, if you’re someone who finds status update reaction notifications to be annoying, you may soon have the option to turn them off.

    This new feature from WhatsApp is a welcome change for users who want more control over how often their device pings them with notifications. It gives them the ability to customize their settings and avoid being bombarded with alerts for every reaction to their status updates, especially in cases where there are many contacts to keep up with.

  • WhatsApp testing scheduling feature for easier event management in Communities

    WhatsApp testing scheduling feature for easier event management in Communities

    A long-awaited WhatsApp feature that was in the headlines from October of last year seems to be finally making its way to beta testers, reports Android Police. We’re talking about a feature that allows you to schedule events within a WhatsApp CommunityThe feature seems to be available for some beta testers on the Android version of WhatsApp. The folks over at WABetaInfo have uncovered that the feature has finally made its way to testing. Usually, WhatsApp Communities could consist of tens or even hundreds of people, and the event scheduling feature will bring the organization to the next level.

    The option is found in WhatsApp’s attachment menu within a Community chat. You will also be able to generate and attach a WhatsApp call link, and you can select whether it will be a video or voice call.

    Community members will receive a notification about the event automatically, and, as such features usually work, each person will be able to review and accept the invite. The event creator can modify the event details later, and all invitees will receive a notification about the changes.

    On top of that, all Community events will be visible from the group info and the community pages. To wrap the feature in a little bow, WhatsApp will be sending you reminders for events, and you can add an event to your calendar with the Add to Calendar button.

    WhatsApp seems to also be looking into event scheduling for regular groups as well.

    For now, the feature is available for some WhatsApp beta testers with version 2.24.9.20 of the Android app. It seems to be a limited release at this point, and you may not have the feature yet even if you’re a beta tester on the required version. However, we expect it will soon propagate to more people before becoming official.

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