WhatsApp Introduces New Features for Chats, Calls, and Channels

To enhance the user experience and stay competitive with services like Telegram and Discord, WhatsApp has rolled out a series of new updates across chats, calls, and channels.

🟢 Key New Features at a Glance:

• Group Chat Activity Indicator:
  A new “online” indicator at the top of group chats now shows how many people are currently active in the conversation, making it easier to engage in real-time discussions.

• Customizable Notifications:
  WhatsApp now allows users to highlight specific notifications. With the new "Notify For" setting, you can control alerts for @mentions, replies, and messages—either from saved contacts or from everyone—making it easier to filter important interactions.

• Scan & Send Documents on iPhone:
  iPhone users can now scan documents directly from WhatsApp. Just go to attachments, select “Scan Document,” and follow the steps to scan, crop, and send your file.

• WhatsApp as Default App on iPhone:
  iPhone users can now set WhatsApp as their default messaging and calling app. During video calls, they can also pinch to zoom for a closer view.

• Improved Video Call Quality:
  WhatsApp has upgraded its backend technology to make video calls more reliable and of higher quality. Expect fewer dropped calls and video freezes, thanks to better bandwidth detection and enhanced HD support.

🔔 New Additions for Event Planning:

• WhatsApp already supported event creation in group chats—but now you can also create events in one-on-one conversations.

• New event features include RSVP options like “Maybe,” the ability to bring a +1, set end dates and times, and pin events for easy access.

• You can also now add someone to an ongoing one-on-one call directly from the chat by tapping the call icon and selecting "Join Call."

📣 Channel Upgrades:

• Short Video Sharing:
  Channel admins can now record and share short video updates with their followers.

• Custom QR Codes:
  Unique QR codes can now be generated to directly link to a channel, simplifying promotion and discovery.

• Voice Note Summaries:
  If a channel posts a voice update, users will now see a text summary of the message—perfect for when you're on the go and can't listen.

These new features reflect WhatsApp’s push to evolve into a more interactive, flexible, and user-focused platform while maintaining its core privacy and simplicity.