WhatsApp Rolls Out New Updates for Calls and Chats: Full Details Inside

WhatsApp has announced a new wave of updates across its messaging, calling, and broadcasting platforms. These new features, which are gradually rolling out to users worldwide, aim to enhance usability, improve communication, and offer more customisation for both individuals and groups.

Group Chats: New Ways to Connect and Manage Notifications

1. Online Indicator for Group Chats

A new real-time indicator now lets users see how many participants are online in a group chat. This information appears right beneath the group name, providing instant visibility into group activity.

2. Highlight Notifications in Groups

WhatsApp now offers a “Notify for” setting that allows users to prioritise specific group chat notifications.

• Highlights: Get alerts only for mentions, replies, and messages from saved contacts.

• All: Receive all notifications as usual.

3. Event Creation and Management

A new events feature allows users to create and manage events directly within one-on-one chats.

Key features include:

• RSVP options including “Maybe”

• Ability to invite a plus-one

• Add end dates for events

• Pin events at the top of the chat for quick access

Chats and Reactions: Enhancing Everyday Communication

4. Tappable Reactions

Now, users can tap on someone else’s reaction in a message to quickly send the same emoji reaction. It’s a faster way to agree or respond non-verbally within chats.

5. Document Scanning for iPhone Users

iOS users can now scan and send documents directly from the attachment tray in chats—eliminating the need for a third-party scanner app.

6. WhatsApp as Default Messaging App on iPhone

With the latest iOS update, iPhone users can set WhatsApp as their default app for both messaging and calling, further integrating the app into Apple’s ecosystem.

Calling Experience: More Reliable, Higher Quality

7. Pinch to Zoom During Video Calls

iPhone users can now pinch to zoom in on video calls to get a closer look, adding more flexibility to virtual communication.

8. Add to Call from a Chat Window

Users can now add people to an ongoing one-on-one call directly from the chat by tapping the call icon and selecting ‘Add to call’.

9. Better Call Reliability

WhatsApp has made under-the-hood improvements that enhance call reliability, reduce video freezing, and limit dropped calls—especially on weaker connections.

Channels: More Engagement Tools for Admins

10. Video Notes in Channels

Channel admins can now record and send short video messages (up to 60 seconds), making it easier to engage followers with rich media content.

11. Voice Message Transcripts

Voice messages in Channels now come with auto-generated text transcripts. This functionality, previously available in chats, enhances accessibility and quick content review.

12. QR Code Sharing for Channels

Admins can generate a unique QR code that links directly to their Channel, simplifying sharing and helping increase audience growth through offline or digital promotions.

WhatsApp’s Continued Focus on User Experience

These updates reaffirm WhatsApp’s ongoing commitment to improving functionality across its platform. From enhanced group chat features and smoother calls to new admin tools in Channels, the app continues to evolve in line with user needs.

As the rollout continues, users are advised to update their app to the latest version to enjoy these new features as they become available.