WhatsApp group chats could finally be about to become more manageable, with a new feature letting you filter their notifications.
A new ‘Notify for’ setting will let users specify they only want to be informed if a contact messages the chat, or if they are tagged themselves.
This update – which could save us getting buried under family chats or Buy and Sell group messages.
It’s just one of a slew of changes coming to the app, some more popular than others, such as the Meta AI feature you can’t opt out of.
The messaging service announced the changes this weekend. They are already being rolled out for users, but you might not see all of them immediately as they are being released in stages.
Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to see on your phone now, or at least at some point soon… as long as you don’t have one of these older phone models, which will not be able to use WhatsApp at all from next month.
Ways to tame group chats
It’s great to be in the loop, but not if it means you miss notifications you actually need because you think it will just be a friend of a friend of a friend asking for hairdresser recommendations.
Go to the new ‘Notify for’ setting and select ‘Highlights’ to limit notifications for @mentions, replies, and messages from saved contacts or ‘All’ to receive all notifications.
More ways to see who is online
Another change to group chats is the ability to see who is around to chat in real time.
Under the group name, you will now be able to see how many members are currently using the app.
Add music to your status
You will be able to chat like it’s 2005 again, when Myspace profiles were barren without a song automatically blaring as soon as they opened.
WhatsApp say: ‘When creating a Status, you’ll now see a music note icon at the top of your screen. Tap it, and you’ll unlock a library of songs to pick from — whether it’s today’s top hits, something new, or the earworm that’s stuck in your head.
‘Choose the exact part of the song that fits your moment – up to 15 seconds for a photo and up to 60 seconds for a video.’
New ways to create events
You have been able to create events in groups for a while, and you will now be able to do it in a one-to-one conversation too.
WhatsApp say: ‘We’ve also added the ability to RSVP as “maybe,” invite a plus one, add end date and time for longer events, and pin the event in a chat.’
Easier emoji reacts
Reaction emojis saved us from the efforts of having to actually write something in response to every message.
Now this process will get even easier, as you will be able to tap on someone else’s react to send the same one, rather than having to search yourself.
Make WhatsApp default messaging and calling app on iPhone
Many people already treat it as their default, but now you can make it official with the latest iOS update.
If you want to make the switch, go to Settings > Default Apps and select WhatsApp.
Document scanning on iPhone
Making life easier if you need to send anything more official than a meme, you will be able to scan and send documents directly from WhatsApp on iPhone.
WhatsApp say: ‘Simply select “Scan document” from the attachment tray and follow the steps to scan, crop, and save the document.
Improvements to calls
The messaging app is trying to make is video and audio call functions better too, and is creating a dedicated tab to ‘make new calls, share call links, and manage your call history’.
New features for calls include:
Pinch to zoom in video calls: iPhone users can now pinch to zoom in on a video while on a video call.
Add to call from a chat: Add someone to an ongoing call directly from a chat thread by tapping the call icon on the top and selecting ‘Add to call’.
Smoother video calls: WhatsApp say they have upgraded their technology to make video calls more reliable and higher quality. They said: ‘Our optimised routing system finds the best connection path, reducing dropped calls and video freezing. And our improved bandwidth detection quickly upgrades your video to HD quality for a more enjoyable experience.’
Changes to the Updates tab
This tab is separate from your personal chats and includes Status and Channels, where publishers can share to a wide audience.
WhatsApp say they are making it easier for people who run channels with the following changes:
Video notes for Channels: Channel admins will now be able to instantly record and share videos of 60 seconds or less.
Voice message transcripts on Channels: Users will be able to get a written summary of voice message updates from channels.
QR codes: Channel admins will be able to share a unique QR code that links directly to their channel, making it easy to share with others.
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