All new features added to WhatsApp in December 2024
WhatsApp, the popular instant messaging app with over two billion active monthly users globally, continues to introduce updates to enhance the user experience. As the most popular social media platform in South Africa, WhatsApp plays a significant role in the daily lives of millions of users in the country.
In December 2024, WhatsApp launched several new features and beta updates across different platforms, aiming to improve productivity and enrich users' interactions on the app.
Enhanced Reactions with Animated Confetti Emoji
iPhone users can now enjoy enhanced reactions with the animated confetti emoji, adding a colorful touch to their messages with a vibrant confetti pop-up.
Automated Document Scanning and Cropping
With the Document tab in the attachment window, iPhone users can now scan and crop documents automatically, simplifying document handling by effectively highlighting text for quick and seamless processing.
Selective Participants in Group Calls
Users can now select specific participants when initiating group calls, avoiding unnecessary notifications for all group members. This feature allows for a more targeted and efficient group calling experience.
New Call Tab on Desktop App
The desktop app now features a dedicated tab for calls, enabling users to initiate calls, create call links, and dial numbers directly from the app for improved functionality and consistency.
In-App Dialer for Direct Calls
WhatsApp is testing an in-app dialer on Android, allowing users to make calls by entering numbers directly without the need to save them. This feature also highlights verified business accounts for added convenience.
Integration with Meta AI for Quick Queries
Users on Android can now share messages or media files directly with Meta AI for instant queries or suggestions, streamlining interactions with the AI tool within WhatsApp.
Language Pack Downloads for Offline Translations
Android users can download language packs to translate messages natively, facilitating communication across different languages while ensuring offline and secure translations.
Improved Features for Voice Notes and Group Chats
Android users can now reply to voice notes swiftly with a shortcut, view the number of active participants in group chats, and combine status updates with channel creation seamlessly in one menu.
Enhanced Business Tools and Video Playback
Businesses can link AI tools for customer queries, adjust video playback speed, and share media/text directly with other apps without downloading first, enhancing cross-platform sharing and customer interactions.
Transparency and Verification Tools
Users can track chat history sync progress on linked devices, perform reverse image searches on WhatsApp Web, and verify image authenticity through Google-powered tools for added transparency and security.
These updates and features demonstrate WhatsApp's commitment to improving user experiences and introducing innovative tools for effective communication and collaboration. Stay tuned for more exciting developments from WhatsApp in the future.
Source: Beebom
