WhatsApp is a work in progress! As the Meta app is constantly adding features, upgrading old ones, and introducing new tools, it can be hard to keep track of all the changes. This is what this live blog is for!
As soon as Meta and WhatsApp announce new plans for the WhatsApp app or WhatsApp Business updates, we’ll be adding them to this live blog to keep you informed.
💡 News about WhatsApp Pay and mobile payment can be found here!
WhatsApp updates 2024
Blocking users from taking screenshots
WhatsApp is now blocking users from taking screenshots of contact profile pictures. Although the company has not notified the change, the feature is rolling out to Android users globally. When attempting to take a screenshot of a users’ profile pictures on WhatsApp for Android, no error or warning message is displayed, however, the screenshot is blacked-out in place of the profile image. The screenshot is disabled only for the full profile picture view. You can still take a screenshot in the profile view mode, which shows the profile picture in a small circular pop-out window.
Update February 12, 2024
Using WhatsApp without a phone number
WhatsApp is currently developing a new feature that will allow users to create a WhatsApp account using a username instead of a phone number. This feature has been in progress since October 2023 and is now closer to being implemented, as revealed by Wabetainfo in an iOS beta version of WhatsApp.
The use of a username as identification will eliminate the need to share personal phone numbers when communicating on WhatsApp. Currently, users’ phone numbers are visible to everyone when connecting on the platform.
In the Beta version, users will have the ability to select a username, which will then be validated by WhatsApp to ensure it is unique and meets specific criteria, such as using alphanumeric characters only. Regenerate Response
Once the username is validated, users can simply use this as identification on WhatsApp.
For users, this will bring more privacy and convenience to the messaging app.
Update January 29, 2024
WhatsApp working on third-party chats
In accordance with the interoprability requirements of the European Digital Market Act, WhatsApp seems to be working on a third-party chat integration. As reported by Wabetainfo, theres’ a new iOS beta version in the works that included a section called “third-party chats”.
This integration would allow users to receive messages from other messaging apps like Telegram or Discord directly on WhatsApp. So far, there is only an iOS beta version, but Android will most likely follow soon.
Update January 8, 2024
Verified badge for businesses on WhatsApp channels
WhatsApp is working on a verified badge for businesses on WhatsApp channels. According to Wabetainfo, businesses will be able to get their verified badge through a Meta Verified subscription.
This would be the first time businesses could get a verified check mark without using the WhatsApp Business Platform. However, it’s unclear how much the verified badge for WhatsApp Channels will cost and what other benefits would get from having a verified profile.
Secret code for chat lock and extended chat protection
Earlier this year, WhatsApp introduced the chat lock feature (updated on May 16, 2023), designed to enhance the protection of sensitive conversations. With the new addition of a secret code, users can further secure certain chats, making them more difficult to access, especially in instances where others may have access to the same phone.
The secret code feature allows users to set a unique password for locked WhatsApp chats, ensuring an extra layer of security. It is important to note that the secret code should be distinct from the phone unlocking password for added protection.
WhatsApp chat lock secret code (Source: WhatsApp)
Users now have the option to conceal the Blocked chats folder within the chat list, making it accessible only after entering the secret code in the search bar. However, users can choose to display these chats in the chat list if they prefer. To block a new chat, users can simply press and hold the chat without having to navigate to the chat settings.
The secret code feature will be rolled out promptly and will be accessible to all users globally in the upcoming months.
Multiple accounts in WhatsApp
WhatsApp now provides users with the capability to simultaneously log into two WhatsApp accounts on Android devices. This option simplifies the process of switching between different accounts, like work and personal accounts. Users no longer need to log out repeatedly, use two separate phones, or be concerned about mistakenly sending messages from the incorrect account.
Multiple accounts in WhatsApp (source: WhatsApp)
To set up a second account, users need a second phone number and a SIM card or a phone that supports multi-SIM or eSIM. In the WhatsApp settings, click on the arrow next to the name and then select “Add account”. WhatsApp users can also set individual privacy and notification settings for each account here.
It’s important to note that although the ability to switch between private and professional WhatsApp chats is now easier, if you keep your business conversations on a smartphone, you’re still violating data privacy laws like the GDPR.
If you want to keep business ans private WhatsApp chats both seperate and secure, it’s better to use a professional WhatsApp solution. That’s not only safer, but also offers you more business features.
Update September 20, 2023
WhatsApp Pay now available in India
Following its launch in Brazil and Singapore, WhatsApp Pay is now accessible for all businesses in India as well. This announcement was made during Meta’s Conversations conference in Mumbai on September 20. With this development, customers can now browse product lists, shop, and make payments directly on WhatsApp.
The payment options available will include WhatsApp Pay, Google Pay, and all Unified Payments Interface (UPI) payment systems in India. UPI is an instant payment system pioneered in India by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), designed to facilitate seamless money transfers between bank accounts through a unified platform.
Meta’s instant messaging platform WhatsApp is testing 60-second video status feature in public beta version. According to a report by WABetaInfo, the latest beta version of WhatsApp for Android allows users to upload videos up to one minute long on their status. In comparison, the current version of WhatsApp lets users post a 30-second video status on their profiles.
60-second video status
Meta-owned Instagram already allows one-minute long stories, and WhatsApp will likely follow its footsteps.
According to the report, the feature is only available to select users who have opted for the app’s beta testing program. However the feature is expected to roll-out widely in the coming weeks.
Earlier this week, WhatsApp for Android has been updated with a new design. The Android app for the messaging platform now features a navigation bar on the bottom, resembling the one on the iOS version. The navigation bar features different sections for chats, updates, communities, and calls. All these options were placed on top of the screen previously.
WhatsApp’s dedication to remaining user-friendly and innovative.
Meta-owned WhatsApp, a widely used messaging app globally, has continued its commitment to user satisfaction by introducing five new features, enhancing functionality and security. These updates, initially available to beta users, showcase WhatsApp’s dedication to remaining user-friendly and innovative.
1. Multiple Accounts on One Device
WhatsApp now allows Android users to have two accounts logged in simultaneously, streamlining the experience for those juggling work and personal messaging. This feature eliminates the need to log out repeatedly or use two separate devices.
2. High-Quality Media Sharing for iOS Users
WhatsApp introduces a feature for iOS users to send photos and videos as documents, preserving their original quality. This functionality, already available on Android, facilitates sharing documents up to 2GB in size.
3. Enhanced Privacy with IP Address Protection
In the privacy settings, WhatsApp introduces an ‘Advanced’ section, offering a new ‘protect IP address in calls’ option. This ensures a more secure experience during voice and video calls, emphasizing user privacy.
4. Redesigned Interface (iOS)
A redesigned interface with new colors and icons has been introduced for a limited number of iOS users. The app now features a new green color as its main tint, providing a fresh and updated look.
5. Message Pinning for Easy Reference
Users can now pin messages within chats and groups, streamlining the process of highlighting important or frequently referenced messages. This new pinned message feature is accessible in the context message menu.
Conclusion
These features collectively contribute to WhatsApp’s ongoing efforts to enhance user experience and adapt to evolving communication needs. Whether it’s simplifying multitasking, preserving media quality, bolstering privacy measures, refreshing the interface, or improving message organization, WhatsApp continues to prioritize user satisfaction.
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