WhatsApp, with nearly 3 billion users globally, has seen significant updates in 2024. Meta, its parent company, seeks to monetize the platform by enhancing WhatsApp Business for businesses. This article highlights ten new WhatsApp features introduced in 2024, specifically designed for an Indian audience.
Top 10 New WhatsApp Features 2024
- Voice Status Feature
- Pin Messages in Chat
- Edit Messages
- Companion Mode
- Chat Lock
- Send Full-Resolution Images
- Silence Unknown Calls
- WhatsApp Channels
- New Layout
- Screen Sharing
- Voice Status Feature
- Pin Messages in Chat
- Edit Messages
- Companion Mode
Read More: How to Save and Find Audio Files on WhatsApp
1. Voice Status Feature
In 2023, WhatsApp unveiled a voice status feature, allowing users to share thoughts effortlessly with friends. Users can record and post voice messages as status updates, similar to Instagram stories. To access this feature, go to the Status tab, tap the pencil icon, and hold the mic icon.
2. Pin Messages in Chat
Tired of losing essential chats? WhatsApp’s new pin messages feature keeps up to three chats at the top for easy access. On Android, tap and hold a chat, then select “Pin chat.” For iOS, swipe right on the chat to pin it.
3. Edit Messages
WhatsApp’s edit messages feature lets you correct typing mistakes within 15 minutes of sending. Simply press the message and choose “Edit” from the menu.
4. Companion Mode
WhatsApp’s companion mode links your account to multiple devices. Activate it by opening WhatsApp on your second phone, selecting “Or link this device to an existing account,” and scanning the QR code.
5. Chat Lock
Keep private chats hidden with WhatsApp’s chat lock feature. Lock chats with a password, accessible only through your phone’s authentication method (passcode, Face ID, or fingerprint). Locked chats move to a separate “Locked chats” folder, discreetly displaying incoming messages as “WhatsApp: 1 new message.” Enable chat lock in chat info by tapping “Chat lock.”
6. Send Full-Resolution Images
WhatsApp now provides an “HD quality” option for sharing images and videos without compression. Look for the HD icon when sending media, but note that this option uses more data and storage.
7. Silence Unknown Calls
Avoid unwanted calls from unknown numbers with WhatsApp’s new privacy setting. Block or silence calls from unfamiliar contacts by going to Settings > Privacy > Calls > Silence Unknown Calls.
8. WhatsApp Channels
WhatsApp Channels allow users to follow posts from social media creators, celebrities, and organizations of interest. Access channels via the “Updates” tab on your phone.
9. New Layout
WhatsApp has launched a new Android app design, resembling its iOS counterpart with a bottom navigation bar. Additional UI updates incorporating Material Design 3 elements are anticipated.
10. Screen Sharing
WhatsApp’s screen-sharing feature, previously for beta testers, is now available to all. During a video call, tap the screen-sharing icon to share your phone screen with another participant.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Voice Status feature?
The Voice Status feature allows users to record and share voice messages as status updates, similar to Instagram stories. To use it, go to the Status tab, tap the pencil icon, and hold the mic icon to record your message.
How do I pin messages in chat?
You can pin up to three essential chats at the top of your list for quick access. On Android, tap and hold the chat you want to pin, then select “Pin chat.” For iOS, swipe right on the chat and tap “Pin.”
Can I edit messages after sending them?
Yes, WhatsApp allows you to edit messages within 15 minutes of sending. Tap on the sent message and select “Edit” from the menu.
What is Companion Mode?
Companion Mode enables you to link your existing WhatsApp account to another device. To activate it, open WhatsApp on your second phone, select “Or link this device to an existing account,” and scan the provided QR code.
How does Chat Lock work?
Chat Lock lets you secure private conversations with a password or your phone’s authentication method (Face ID, fingerprint, etc.). Locked chats are moved to a separate folder, and incoming messages are discreetly indicated.
What does the HD quality option do?
The HD quality option allows you to send images and videos without compression, ensuring higher quality. Look for the HD icon when sharing media, but be mindful that it consumes more data and storage.
How can I silence unknown calls?
To silence calls from unknown numbers, go to Settings > Privacy > Calls and enable the “Silence Unknown Calls” feature. This will help you avoid unwanted interruptions.
What are WhatsApp Channels?
WhatsApp Channels allow users to follow updates from their favorite social media creators, celebrities, and organizations. You can access these channels through the “Updates” tab in the app.
What changes were made to the app’s layout?
The new Android app design features a bottom navigation bar, similar to the iOS version. Further UI updates incorporating Material Design 3 elements are also expected.
How do I use the screen-sharing feature?
During a video call, you can share your phone screen with another person by tapping the screen-sharing icon at the bottom of the screen. This feature enhances collaboration during calls.
Conclusion
The new features introduced in WhatsApp in 2023 significantly enhance user experience and functionality. From the innovative Voice Status feature to the ability to pin important chats and edit messages, these updates cater to users’ diverse needs. Companion Mode and Chat Lock improve accessibility and privacy, while options like HD quality sharing and screen sharing facilitate better communication.
The introduction of WhatsApp Channels further connects users with their favorite creators and organizations. With these advancements, WhatsApp continues to solidify its position as a leading messaging platform, making communication more engaging and efficient for millions of users worldwide.