WHATSAPP users should prepare for a whole new slew of features to make the app a more interactive and fun experience. As detailed in the Daily Express recently, there are five new features to look out for, some of which have already been available to both iOS and Android users for the past few weeks, and some which are set to roll out soon.
Joinable calls
This feature was initially rolled out in late July, and allows users to join group video and voice calls after they have already begun, similar to Zoom or Google Meet calls. It is a useful addition to have, considering how group video calls have become an increasing part of our lives. To make it even smoother, WhatsApp added a new call info screen to show who’s already on the call and who was invited but hasn’t yet joined.
Smart Switch
For users who are switching between Android and iOS devices, this feature makes backing up and moving your chat history and files from one system to the other a whole lot smoother. It will be coming to all Samsung phones that run Android 10 or higher in the next few weeks, followed shortly by all Android and iOS devices.
Multi-device support
For the first time, people will be able to use WhatsApp on their laptops or PCs, without needing an active phone! Aside from opening the service up to a whole new market, this also allows people to continue to be able to use WhatsApp Web even after their phones ran out of battery or were switched off. All messages and data including stickers, new contacts and starred messages will be shared seamlessly between devices.
Disappearing messages
The new View Once feature allows photos and videos to disappear after they have been viewed, similar to Snapchat. WhatsApp says the feature will be useful for sending temporary information, like passwords. To send one of the disappearing messages, load up a picture or video as usual. Then tap the “1” button in the lower right corner to enable View Once mode.
Archived chats update
Archive chats will also stay safely tucked away in their own folder, even if someone sends a new message. And it couldn’t be simpler to bring them back to the main chat screen through the Settings menu.
