WhatsApp has rolled out a host of significant updates aimed at enhancing user experiences across messaging, calling, and channel interactions, as it seeks to stay competitive against rivals like Telegram and Discord.
One of the most notable changes introduced is an “Online” indicator prominently positioned at the top of group chats, which dynamically shows how many participants are actively available for conversation.
The latest upgrade also provides refined control over alerts in group chats. A new “Notify for” option under notification settings allows users to receive select notifications. They can opt to be alerted only for highlights—such as @mentions, direct replies, or messages from saved contacts—or choose “All” to continue receiving notifications for every message.
WhatsApp has also introduced document scanning capabilities specifically tailored for iPhone users. Now, users can tap on the attachments icon and select “scan document,” then easily scan, crop, and send documents directly within their chats.
Additionally, WhatsApp is becoming more prominently integrated into the iPhone ecosystem. Users can now set WhatsApp as their default messaging and calling application. Furthermore, a new pinch-to-zoom option is available during video calls, enhancing call usability on iPhones.
As for improvements in video calls, WhatsApp reports substantial upgrades to its call infrastructure aimed at reducing incidents of dropped sessions and frozen video streams. With enhanced bandwidth detection capabilities, WhatsApp anticipates better support for high-definition calls, ensuring clearer visuals and more reliable connections.
WhatsApp is also expanding the functionality surrounding events. Previously available in group chats, event creation is now also enabled within one-on-one conversations. Additional event features include the option to RSVP as “maybe,” extend invitations that allow guests to bring a “plus one,” specify end dates and times, and pin events for easier access.
Furthermore, users involved in one-to-one audio or video calls will now have the flexibility to add another participant directly from their active call interface by tapping the “Add to call” option.
Channels are seeing considerable upgrades as well. Admins can record and share brief video updates directly with channel followers. They now also have the option to share a unique QR code that instantly redirects users to their channels. In addition, WhatsApp has introduced a summarized text version of voice message updates within channels, allowing followers to quickly catch up without needing to listen through multiple individual messages.
