WhatsApp keeps rolling out new features that change how we chat, call, and share content. From animated avatars to smarter AI suggestions, there’s plenty to explore. This post covers 10 fresh WhatsApp updates that you should check out, including a cool power bank that complements your mobile experience.
1) WhatsApp's Animated Avatar: A Fun Twist on Your Profile Picture
WhatsApp now lets you set an animated avatar displayed alongside your original profile picture. When someone views your WhatsApp DP, they first see your regular photo, but if they swipe, they’ll see your custom animated avatar. This feature is similar to Instagram’s avatars but with a unique interface.
How to set your animated avatar:
- Open WhatsApp Settings and tap on the Avatar section.
- Choose from various animated avatar styles.
- You can customize the background colours.
- Save your selection.
This feature offers a fresh, creative way to personalize your WhatsApp profile, whether for fun or professionalism.
Raise Hand and Emoji Reactions on Audio Calls
WhatsApp has improved its audio calls by adding two new features:
1. Raise Hand:
During an audio call, tap the three-dot menu, then select Raise Hand. Your contact will see a lower-hand emoji on their screen, making it easier to get attention.
2. Emoji Reactions:
Now you can send emoji reactions during audio calls, not just video calls. This allows silent communication using emojis, which is especially handy in situations like late-night calls or when speech isn’t possible.
Together, these updates improve how people interact during audio calls, adding non-verbal cues that keep conversations engaging without words.
2) Smarter Meta AI Chat Suggestions on WhatsApp
Meta AI on WhatsApp has been updated to provide better chat suggestions. Now when you open Meta AI, it shows default suggestions grouped by categories relevant to your needs. This not only improves how AI can assist you but also guides you in using AI for learning and day-to-day interactions.
WhatsApp has also tweaked Meta AI to reduce misuse and offer more accurate, useful recommendations.
4) See Who’s Online and Typing in Group Chats Without Opening Them
One standout feature is the ability to see who is online and who is typing in group chats without opening the group conversation.
What it shows:
- Who is currently online in the group.
- Names of individual members typing if only one person is typing.
- Shows how many people are typing at the same time
This helps keep track of group activity at a glance, without marking the conversation as read or opening the chat useful for staying up to date while maintaining privacy.
5) Improved GIF Keyboard Interface
WhatsApp revamped the GIF keyboard for a cleaner look. Where earlier you saw GIFs in two columns, now it displays them in three columns, which the team says makes browsing easier and tidier.
This change streamlines choosing the perfect GIF for your chats. You can check it out next time you send stickers or GIFs and share whether you like the new design.
6) AI-Powered Chat Wallpaper Creator
WhatsApp is testing an AI wallpaper creator for chats. This feature will let you generate wallpapers on the spot using AI prompts right inside the app.
How it works:
- Go to the chat section settings.
- Navigate to wallpaper selection and look for the Create with AI button.
- Enter a prompt to design your wallpaper as you like.
Currently, this feature is in trial and available to select users. It’s a creative way to personalize your chats beyond static wallpapers.
7) Broadcast Message Subscription: A New Business Feature
WhatsApp Business users are getting an enhanced broadcast message feature that allows sending personalized messages to multiple customers with one click. This service comes with a free trial but will eventually require a subscription fee.
This update is aimed at businesses that rely on WhatsApp for customer communication. While it streamlines outreach, the subscription model may bring extra costs for business users.
8) Paid Subscriptions for WhatsApp Channels
WhatsApp is introducing a subscription option for Channels. Unlike YouTube channels, which are free to subscribe to, WhatsApp will require users to pay for certain channels.
This means some content on WhatsApp Channels will only be available if you pay. While monetization could help content creators, it might limit access for many users. The feature is optional for channel owners, and many might continue offering free content.
9) Post Status Updates in Groups, Share Media Status Directly
WhatsApp now allows group admins to post status updates visible to all group members just like personal status posts.
Additionally, when sharing photos or videos from your phone gallery, you’ll see WhatsApp Status as a direct sharing option. This simplifies updating your status with new media without opening WhatsApp separately.
WhatsApp keeps pushing updates that improve how we connect, share, and interact. From animated avatars and smarter AI to new business tools, these 10 features add more value to everyday messaging. Try them out and see which ones make your chats better.
10) Advanced Privacy for chats
This feature is designed for people who want an extra layer of security beyond the usual options. When you turn it on, the app blocks a few regular functions to keep your conversations completely private. For example, photos and videos from that chat won’t automatically save to your phone’s gallery, and you can’t use tools like mentions, unread filters, or chat exports. It also prevents you from backing up or transferring those messages, making sure the conversation stays only on your device. In short, it’s a trade-off: you lose some convenience, but you gain stronger protection for sensitive chats.
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