WhatsApp replaces camera shortcut with gallery access in chat bar
WhatsApp has introduced a gallery shortcut in its latest update for Android users. This new option allows users to access their photo and video gallery directly from the chat bar.
With the fresh update, the chat bar has now a new gallery icon that replaces the camera shortcut. This change makes it faster for users to access their stored photos and videos without going through multiple steps.
Users can simply tap the new gallery button to browse their media. However, they can still press and hold the button to record instant video messages, so this important feature remains available.
Previously, WhatsApp added a quick reply feature for video messages to make it easier to respond. Now, a new gallery icon is under testing for the WhatsApp chat bar that replaces the camera shortcut.
Currently, the gallery shortcut feature is available only to a limited group of beta testers with WhatsApp Beta version 2.24.23.11 for Android devices. The company seems to be testing this update to gather feedback.
Some users may prefer quick access to the gallery, while others might miss the old camera shortcut. For now, those who have access to the gallery shortcut can enjoy a faster way to share photos and videos.
WhatsApp now lets you easily organize chats with custom lists
WhatsApp has pushed a new beta update with version 2.24.26.6 for Android users via the Google Play Beta Program. This update makes it easier to reply to voice messages with just a tap to save time and improve the chat experience.
The new feature adds a quick reply button for voice messages. When you listen to a voice note, you’ll see a button that allows you to immediately record and send your reply.
It means you no longer need to swipe or tap the “reply” option as you did before. With just one tap, you can respond directly to keep the conversation flowing smoothly.
This new quick voice reply feature is similar to a feature WhatsApp introduced earlier for video messages. Users could reply to video messages with a simple tap, without any extra steps.
Now, with this new update, WhatsApp is adding the same feature for voice messages. It makes replying to voice messages quicker and easier than ever.
The quick reply feature is currently available to limited users who are testing the WhatsApp Beta program with the latest version. It is being rolled out gradually, so more people will be able to try it over the next few weeks. If you’re a beta tester, you can update your app through the Google Play Store to access this new feature.
WhatsApp is testing a new feature for group chats in its latest beta update. Identified via version 2.24.25.30 available through the Google Play Beta Program, the WhatsApp beta update adds an online counter feature.
The new online counter appears at the top of group chats to show how many people in the group have WhatsApp open and are online. This replaces the old feature that showed a summary of who was typing or recording a message.
Now, you can quickly see how many members are active in the group at any moment. This feature helps you to understand when it might be a good time to send a message or start a conversation.
Notably, the online counter only includes members who haven’t turned off their online status option in their privacy settings. If a user has hidden their online status, they won’t be counted, which ensures their privacy.
This feature can be especially useful in busy groups, as it lets you know when most people are online. Currently, the online counter is available to some beta testers, and it will gradually be rolled out to more users in the coming weeks.
WhatsApp Beta helps you never forget unread messages from important contacts
WhatsApp has released a fresh beta update with version 2.24.25.29, which brings a reminder notification feature for unread chat messages. This new beta update is available for Android via the Google Play Beta Program.
Previously, WhatsApp only sent reminders for status updates from specific contacts, mainly those you interact with the most. With the new update, WhatsApp is expanding this feature to remind you about unread chat messages from your most frequent contacts.
These reminders are sent for messages from people you chat with the most. If you leave a message unread, WhatsApp will notify you to make sure you don’t forget to reply.
Notably, the app uses an internal algorithm to choose these contacts based on how often you interact with them. However, if you reinstall the app, this data will be reset, as it’s not saved in backups or on WhatsApp’s servers.
Once this feature is activated, WhatsApp will remind you about any unread messages from important contacts. WhatsApp also makes sure the reminders are relevant and helpful without being annoying.
This feature is currently available to limited beta testers who have installed the latest version of WhatsApp Beta for Android. WhatsApp also plans to roll it out to more users.
WhatsApp adds floating button and gestures for faster group voice chats