WhatsApp has confirmed the release of a major update introducing four new features designed to make managing group conversations easier. The Meta-owned service announced the changes, which are rolling out globally and will arrive on iPhone and Android devices in the coming weeks.
In a statement, WhatsApp said: "A busy group chat means plans are being made, news is being shared and the jokes are in full swing. But it can also mean a lot of messages to catch up on when you’ve been busy. Today we're introducing four updates that make it easier to pick up where you left off."
Longer message pinning and easier catch-up for new members
The first new feature allows users to pin messages for longer, with the option to keep important chats pinned indefinitely rather than choosing a time limit up front.
There is also more flexibility in bringing new members up to speed in group chats. Earlier this year, WhatsApp introduced the ability to share recent message history with people when they join a group. Now, it is also possible to send recent messages to someone who has just joined by tapping their name in the chat. This means they can get up to speed with what's been going on. As with all personal conversations, WhatsApp says these messages remain protected by end-to-end encryption.
Group Status and mentions filter
Another new addition is Group Status, which makes it easier to share updates with specific groups of people. This means users can post something for their running club, for example, without sharing it with family and friends. Everyone in the group can view, react to and add their own status updates, which disappear after 24 hours, just like regular WhatsApp Status posts.
Finally, WhatsApp is introducing a new filter for mentions and replies. This will show unread group conversations where users have been directly mentioned or received a reply, including messages using @all. It should make it much easier to catch up on the conversations that matter most without having to scroll through every group chat.
The app should update automatically once the changes become available.
