WhatsApp bringing Instagram-like sticker prompts for status updates
WhatsApp is testing a new feature that will make status updates more interactive and fun. In the latest beta (version 2.24.23.21) update for Android, WhatsApp is working on a new sticker prompts feature for status updates.
The “Add Yours” sticker lets users create interactive challenges or prompts in their status updates to encourage friends and contacts to share their own content.
This feature is similar to Instagram’s sticker but with a unique twist. When you use the “Add Yours” sticker, you can ask your contacts to share something specific.
For example, a user might create a prompt asking everyone to share a picture of their garden. When someone taps the sticker, they can add their status update related to the prompt. This brings a fun and creative way to engage with friends.
Since WhatsApp status updates are end-to-end encrypted, your contacts won’t be able to see who started the challenge or who has participated. It means your responses stay private, and only the people you’ve chosen to share your status with will see your content. It ensures that interactions stay secure and confidential.
The sticker prompts feature is currently being tested in the WhatsApp beta for Android and will be available in a future update. Keep an eye out for more updates as WhatsApp continues to improve its app.
WhatsApp to let users pick their preferred main color for app interface
WhatsApp has rolled out a new update through the Google Play Beta Program, which gives users a sneak peek at an exciting feature that will soon allow them to change the app’s main color.
The latest beta version 2.24.23.18 arrives with a new theme customization option, which allows users to cutomize the main color of the app. This feature is currently under development but it promises to offer a more personalized experience for WhatsApp users in the future.
In the light theme, the classic green color will be replaced with black which creates a modern and minimalist design. In the dark theme, white will become the main color, making it easier to read in low-light conditions.
This customization feature will give users more control over the app’s look and add the ability to choose a color as per their preference. Moreover, it’s designed to make the interface cleaner and easier to use.
WhatsApp first teased this theme customization feature in earlier beta version 2.24.18.6, where users saw hints of new color options. Since then, WhatsApp has been enhancing the feature, including adjustments to the logo and other elements of the design.
This new feature is still under development and is expected to be available with upcoming beta updates. If you’re testing the WhatsApp Beta, you may get access to the feature earlier than others. Keep an eye on future updates to see when the new theme customization option will be available to all users.
WhatsApp is rolling out a new feature for Android users, which allows them to search images shared in chats on the web. This feature is currently available to some beta testers and helps users check the authenticity of images they receive to make it easier to spot fake or edited images.
Previously, WhatsApp hinted at working on the Search images on the web feature in the 2.24.21.31 beta update. Now, it’s being tested with a select group of beta users with version 2.24.23.13.
With this latest beta update, WhatsApp users can now search for images they receive in chats by using a Search on Web option. This option appears when you tap the three-dot menu on an image in your chat.
This new feature allows you to perform a reverse image search through Google to help you find more information about the image. This is especially useful for checking images that may be misleading or fake.
Instead of downloading or manually uploading an image for a search, you can now do it directly within WhatsApp with this new feature.
Notably, the feature is optional, meaning users can choose whether to use it or not. If you decide to search for an image, it’s sent to Google for the reverse search, but WhatsApp itself doesn’t store or process the image to ensure your privacy.
This feature is available to some beta testers who have installed the latest WhatsApp beta update from the Google Play Store. It will be rolled out to more users over the next few weeks
WhatsApp replaces camera shortcut with gallery access in chat bar
WhatsApp has introduced a gallery shortcut in its latest update for Android users. This new option allows users to access their photo and video gallery directly from the chat bar.
With the fresh update, the chat bar has now a new gallery icon that replaces the camera shortcut. This change makes it faster for users to access their stored photos and videos without going through multiple steps.
Users can simply tap the new gallery button to browse their media. However, they can still press and hold the button to record instant video messages, so this important feature remains available.
Previously, WhatsApp added a quick reply feature for video messages to make it easier to respond. Now, a new gallery icon is under testing for the WhatsApp chat bar that replaces the camera shortcut.
Currently, the gallery shortcut feature is available only to a limited group of beta testers with WhatsApp Beta version 2.24.23.11 for Android devices. The company seems to be testing this update to gather feedback.
Some users may prefer quick access to the gallery, while others might miss the old camera shortcut. For now, those who have access to the gallery shortcut can enjoy a faster way to share photos and videos.
WhatsApp now lets you easily organize chats with custom lists