Technology
WhatsApp is making two HUGE changes to app in surprise updates
WHATSAPP is testing two new features that change major parts of the app.
The Meta-owned app is working on a new search function and Facebook-style message reactions.
WhatsApp / WABetaInfoWhatsApp is working on lots of new features[/caption]
Both of these features are being tested in the beta version of the app.
That’s a test version of WhatsApp where new changes can be trialled before rolling out to the wider public.
The new features were uncovered by the sleuths at WABetaInfo, who have a great track record for uncovering WhatsApp changes.
WhatsApp search change
WhatsApp has tweaked the Android beta to make searching easier.
The app recently redesigned the contact info design on Android and iOS.
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Now a search shortcut has been added to the redesigned contact info page.
This will let you quickly search messages for a contact with the new design.
WhatsApp message reactions
For weeks, we’ve seen leaks of WhatsApp testing message reactions.
These Facebook-style reactions will let you reply to texts without having to type anything – using pre-determined emoji.
We’ve seen test updates for message reactions on iOS and Android, but now they’re appearing on the WhatsApp Desktop beta too.
The update allows users to see who has reacted to incoming and outgoing messages.
Of course, WhatsApp is still testing this feature, so it’s unclear when or even if it’ll roll out to the general public.
It’s expected to work just like Facebook, letting you react to individual messages.
A previous tweet from WABetaInfo suggests the reactions include “thumbs up”, “love heart”, “crying with laughter”, “shocked”, “tearful” and “pray” or “high five”.
The advantage is that you’ll probably end up texting less.
Rather than having to type out a reply, you can simply react to something someone has said.
This might mean you get more response from die-hard anti-texters who often leave you on read.
How to get WhatsApp beta
To download WhatsApp beta for your smartphone you need to go to Google Play on your Android and search for WhatsApp.
Scroll down the page until you see “Become a Beta Tester”.
Tap the “I’m In” button and then click “Join” to confirm.
Now all you have to do is wait for the update to the beta version of the app.
Joining the WhatsApp beta on iPhone is more difficult, and has limited capacity.
Follow Apple’s guide here.
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