10 additional features added to WhatsApp recently

In 2024, WhatsApp introduced various features that redefine how users communicate. These updates, from AI-powered tools to advanced personalization and improved media sharing, make the app more versatile and user-friendly. This article highlights the most impactful changes shaping WhatsApp this year.

1. Status tagging/mentions

The most prominent addition to WhatsApp is the feature that allows you to tag your contacts in your status. When you mention someone in your Whatsapp status, only that person will receive an alert. You can mention up to five people in a single status update.

2. Draft unfinished messages automatically 

WhatsApp automatically saves unfinished messages as drafts, so you can pick up where you left off. A draft indicator will remind you of incomplete messages the next time you open the app. 

3. Resharing statuses 

With this new update, users can now reshare status updates on WhatsApp. People mentioned privately in status can now reshare it as their own without having to ask for it to be sent to them.

4. Messaging yourself 

This new feature allows users to send messages to their phone number. You can save your important notes or media on this chat. Moreover, your media and chats in the ‘Message Yourself’ chat can be delivered to all your linked devices so that you can access them anytime across all devices.

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5. WhatsApp Polls

This feature allows users to ask questions and get real-time answers in personal or group chats. Users can add up to 12 options under one question in a poll.

6. WhatsApp Avatars

Meta is rolling out the new Avatar feature for WhatsApp. WhatsApp users can now create their personalized Avatar and set it as a profile picture or send Avatar stickers.

7. Meta AI

WhatsApp now integrates advanced AI capabilities directly into the app. This doesn’t require any additional sign-up process, as it is free. With Meta AI, you can understand complex topics, seek clarifications, and ask questions.

8. Undo Delete for me

WhatsApp lets users undo the “Delete for Me” message within seconds. If you click the ‘Delete for Me’ option instead of “Delete for Everyone,” you can recover the deleted message by clicking the “Undo” option and your message will be recovered.

9. Reacting to status

Another feature of the WhatsApp updates is the ability to react to statuses. Instead of leaving a comment or typing an emoji on a person’s status, you can now simply tap the status to react to it with favourite emoji like that of chats.

10. Block Messages from Unknown Contacts

To reduce spam, WhatsApp is testing a new privacy setting that blocks messages from unknown contacts. If an unknown number sends too many messages in a short time, they will be blocked automatically. This feature is expected to roll out soon to improve user privacy.

If you don’t see the new features immediately after updating your WhatsApp, you don’t need to bother yourself. Features often roll out gradually, and the new tools will be activated for you soon—it’s just a matter of time.