WhatsApp’s Upcoming Features: What to Expect Soon

WhatsApp is currently developing several new features that will soon be available to users, but for now, they are accessible only to beta testers. The app is testing features related to channel subscriptions for exclusive content, promoted channels for increased visibility, and status ads for businesses to reach users with targeted ads while respecting privacy.

Meta, the company behind WhatsApp, emphasizes that these updates will not affect the end-to-end encryption of personal or group messages. Below is an overview of some features under development that the company is working to release to the public soon.

Features Under Development on WhatsApp

According to WABetaInfo, WhatsApp has recently announced testing some updates to provide an enhanced and more advanced user experience for both Android and iOS users. These features are currently in beta testing and include:

1. Channel Subscription Service

Discovered in WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.25.19.3.
Channel owners must authenticate via Facebook before offering exclusive paid content to subscribers.
This feature will give creators a new revenue source while allowing channels to offer both free and paid content.
Users will have the choice to subscribe or not.

2. AI-Powered Message Summarization (iOS)

Available in iOS beta version 25.18.10.74.
Summarizes unread messages directly from the chat screen using AI tools.
The system maintains privacy by ensuring all data remains encrypted and anonymized.

3. Writing Help Feature

Android beta 2.25.19.8 and iOS beta 25.18.10.79.
Helps users improve their messages privately using Meta AI.
No user data is stored, preserving privacy.

4. Chat Colors Interface

Lets users customize chat backgrounds, colors, and graphics.
Supports dark and light modes.
Offers between 20 to 38 color options.
Users can personalize individual chats or set a global theme.

5. Image and Video Quality Settings (iOS)

iOS beta 25.18.10.81 introduces the ability to balance data usage and media quality.
Users can choose between standard and HD quality for photos and videos.

6. Photo Layout Feature (iOS)

iOS beta 25.17.81 lets users combine up to 6 photos into one collage inside WhatsApp.
No need for third-party apps.

7. Raise Hand Feature During Calls

Enables users to “raise their hand” during voice or video calls without interrupting.
Useful for work meetings, online classes, or group chats.
Available on Android beta 2.25.19.7 and iOS beta 25.18.10.78.
Currently in beta testing.