WhatsApp, the popular messaging app, is constantly evolving with new features and updates to enhance user experience. Recently, the app has been testing several exciting new features, including the ability to pin messages in group chats, protect your IP address during calls, and choose a unique username to share with other users. These features, currently available to beta testers, promise to revolutionize the way we communicate and interact on WhatsApp. Let’s explore what these new features entail and how they will impact the way we use the app.
Pinning Messages in Group Chats
WhatsApp has implemented a new feature that allows users on the latest beta version for Android (2.23.21.4) to pin messages to the top of group chats. This feature, spotted by WABetaInfo, makes it easier for users to highlight important information in group chats. Users can now long press a specific message, and select the ‘Pin’ option. The pinned message will stay at the top of the chat window, even as new messages are sent and received.
This functionality offers a more efficient way to manage group chats, especially in active groups with a large number of messages. It allows users to keep track of announcements, reminders, or important discussions, without having to sift through a long list of messages. Users can also choose how long they want the message to remain pinned – 24 hours, 7 days, or 30 days. They can also unpin a message at any time after pinning it. The ability to select the duration of the pinned message provides more flexibility and control for users.
Redesigned Share Sheet
The same beta update that introduced the pinned messages feature also includes a new design for the share sheet. This redesigned share sheet, with its modern design elements, is being introduced across various parts of the app, as WhatsApp continues to update its user interface for a more consistent and user-friendly experience. The new design element reflects WhatsApp’s commitment to enhancing both functionality and aesthetics for its users, making the app more intuitive and visually appealing.
Protecting IP Address in Calls
In the latest beta version for iOS (2.23.20.73), WhatsApp is testing a new feature to protect user IP addresses during voice and video calls. This feature will help protect users’ privacy and security during online communication. When enabled, this feature will relay calls through WhatsApp’s server, effectively masking the user’s IP address.
While this feature provides a much-needed layer of privacy protection, it is worth noting that it may slightly degrade the quality of voice calls. Signal, another private messaging app, has offered similar functionality for some time, demonstrating that protecting user privacy is becoming a priority in the messaging app landscape.
Username Picker
WhatsApp is also developing a new username picker feature, spotted in beta version (2.23.20.71) for iOS. This feature will allow users to choose a unique username and share it with other WhatsApp users. The username can be used to communicate with other users without revealing their phone number. This feature can be particularly useful for those who want to communicate with strangers or those who prefer to keep their phone number private.
Users can freely choose their username, incorporating alphabets, numbers, and select special characters. While usernames will be unique, WhatsApp allows users to change their selected username if needed. However, it is unclear when these new features will be rolled out to the stable version of WhatsApp for all users.
Impact of the New Features
The introduction of these new features, once fully integrated, will have a significant impact on the way we communicate on WhatsApp. The ability to pin messages will simplify communication in group chats, especially for important announcements and collaboration. The username selection feature has the potential to revolutionize the way we connect with others, especially online. The added layer of privacy protection for voice and video calls will be welcomed by users who prioritize privacy and security.
Conclusion
WhatsApp’s commitment to innovation and constant improvement is evident in the ongoing development of these new features. The new functionalities demonstrate WhatsApp’s dedication to addressing user needs, enhancing communication, and improving the overall user experience. As these features roll out to a wider user base, they will continue to reshape the landscape of online communication and communication privacy, ultimately shaping the future of the app. It will be exciting to watch as these features become available to all WhatsApp users and witness the impact they have on our communication habits and online interactions.
