A long awaited upgrade is reportedly coming to WhatsApp that could introduce a range of new features.
The messaging app is no stranger to an update - From the introduction of chat filters to adding capital letters to status settings, it’s undergone some subtle transformations since the start of this year.
In recent years, WhatsApp has become so popular that it’s replacing the text message app for iPhone and Android users.
It now has over 2 billion monthly users, and it’s easy to see why.
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With frequent updates and so many users to cater for, it leaves people wondering what could possibly be next - As it turns out, quite a lot.
A long awaited upgrade is reportedly coming to WhatsApp (WhatsApp)
Group video call upgrades
Been searching for a way to spice up group video calls?
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Well, look no further - Group calls are about to get a lot more exciting.
People will soon be able to have backgrounds and filters on throughout. From more simple options such as a generic blur to a more adventurous fake office or cafe, there will be lots available to switch up your usual backdrop.
Filters will be available too! Users will soon be able to select if they want warm, cool, black & white, light leak, dreamy, prism light, fisheye, vintage tv, frosted glass or duo tone.
WhatsApp has said this feature has not been released just yet, but it should be coming out in a matter of weeks.
Image searching
Now this is a helpful one. The image search tool will help users find more information about a specific image they’ve received.
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This means they can see if the image is fake, or has been taken out of context to spread misinformation.
According to WABetaInfo, this will work by uploading the image to Google to locate it for users. This will not be shared within WhatsApp.
In a world of advancing AI, it makes it harder than ever to trust what we see is real, so this tool could not come at a better time.
Right now, this feature is available for users of WhatsApp beta for Android.
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Status update mentions
In this feature, which will go by Private Mentions, you will be able to specifically tag people who you want to see your status.
These people will then be notified privately, and the mentions wont appear on your actual status - Think of it like a close friends list for WhatsApp.
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This feature has already begun to roll out, so keep an eye out.
New default chat themes
Not a fan of the green? Well, listen up.
WhatsApp is introducing a new default chat theme that will allow users to customise the appearance of their chat with any color for chat bubbles and wallpapers.
Put your own stamp on your chat.
WABetaInfo said: ‘As you can see from the attached screenshot, WhatsApp is exploring the implementation of new themes with multiple design styles for the Android app, scheduled for release in a future update.’
WABetaInfo
Block messages from unknown contacts
This update means that WhatsApp will automatically block messages from unknown accounts if they exceed a certain volume of message.
This is all part of the app’s efforts to protect users from unwanted and potentially harmful scam messages. However, there has been no news on the date this feature will be released.
Draft messages
Also available in beta form for iPhone and Android, this helpful feature allows users to keep messages in a draft form.
This means messages can be kept as drafts to later return to.
They’ll be found in the ‘saved draft’ feature which will make it easier to spot rather than having to open an individual chat.
Create polls in status updates
Last but not least, WhatsApp will be adding poll stickers to status updates in case you wanted to ask a question specifically on your WhatsApp status.
Similarly to Instagram, you’ll be able to ask questions on your status and receive votes via poll.