WhatsApp updates group chats, events, calls and channels: A look at the list of features

WhatsApp recently rolled out a series of enhancements across its core functionalities, as detailed in a recent announcement. The features are available across Chat, Calls and Updates tabs on the popular messaging platform, and aim to provide a richer experience to users. Here is a rundown of the features that have been launched in recent weeks.

Real-time 'Online' Indicator, reactions and more in ‘Chats’ tab on WhatsApp
The "Chats" tab, the central hub for private and encrypted communication, has received several notable improvements. These include:

Real-time 'Online' Indicator in Groups: Users can now see the number of participants currently online within a group chat directly beneath the group name, providing a clearer indication of who might be available to chat.

Prioritised Group Chat Notifications: A new “Notify for” setting allows users to customise group notifications. Selecting “Highlights” will limit notifications to only @mentions, replies to your messages and messages from saved contacts. Alternatively, users can still opt for “All” notifications.

Expanded Event Functionality: Building on the ability to create events within groups, users can now schedule events in one-on-one conversations as well. Further enhancements include the option to RSVP with "maybe," invite a plus one, set an end date and time for longer events, and pin event details within the chat for easy access.

Quick Reaction Tapping: Users can view all existing reactions to a message and tap their desired reaction directly.

Direct Document Scanning on iPhone: iPhone users can now scan and share physical documents directly within WhatsApp. The “Scan document” option is located in the attachment tray, guiding users through the scanning, cropping, and saving process.

Set WhatsApp as Default on iPhone: With the latest iOS update, iPhone users can now designate WhatsApp as their default messaging and calling application. This can be configured in the iPhone's Settings under “Default Apps.”

WhatsApp launches features for improved calling
The dedicated “Calls” tab now offers a more streamlined experience for initiating calls and managing call history, with the introduction of:

Pinch-to-Zoom in Video Calls (iPhone): iPhone users can now pinch their screen during a video call to zoom in on either their own video feed or the other participant's, allowing for a closer view.

Seamlessly Add Participants to Ongoing Calls: Users can now add someone to an existing one-on-one call directly from their chat thread. Tapping the call icon at the top of the chat will present an "Add to call" option.

Higher Quality Video Calls: WhatsApp says that it has upgraded its underlying technology to deliver smoother video calls. An optimised routing system aims to find the best connection path, reducing dropped calls and video freezing.

Furthermore, improved bandwidth detection enables the app to quickly upgrade video quality to HD for a more enjoyable experience.

Enhanced Channels experience on WhatsApp
The “Updates” tab, which houses both Status and Channels, continues to evolve with new features for Channel administrators and followers:

Video Notes for Channels: Similar to personal chats, Channel admins can now record and share short video updates (up to 60 seconds) directly with their followers.

Voice Message Transcripts on Channels: For users who prefer to read rather than listen, voice message updates from Channels can now be transcribed into text.

Simplified Channel Sharing via QR Codes: Channel admins can now generate a unique QR code that directly links to their channel, making it easier to share and grow their audience.