Just in time for the holiday season, WhatsApp has announced a number of new features, and the most notable addition is something the company believes will “make voicemails a thing of the past.” In reality, it works similarly to traditional voicemails, with the added convenience of leaving a video message after missed video calls.
In a blog post, WhatsApp explains that users can now leave a voice or video message after missed calls, depending on the type of call. Users on the receiving end can later listen to these messages with just a tap. In addition to the new voicemail feature, WhatsApp offers support for reactions in voice chats and a Spotlight feature for group calls that prioritizes the speaker so others can easily join in.
Meta AI’s image generation capabilities will also be strengthened
WhatsApp has improved Meta AI’s image generation capabilities using Midjourney and Flux models, so users “should notice big improvements when creating annual holiday greetings to share in their chats or statuses.” The messaging app also introduced a new feature that allows users to animate photos using Meta AI.
Additionally, the company has introduced a new media tab on the desktop. This feature was first discovered in a beta release last month and is now finally making its way to the stable channel. The tab allows users to browse shared documents, links, and media from all chats in one place.
Other improvements include updated link previews in chats, new interactive status stickers, and support for questions in channels to help admins better interact with audiences. Although WhatsApp doesn’t say exactly when these new features and improvements will be available to users, the messenger’s App Store listing says that shorter link previews will be available and the Spotlight feature for group video calls will be rolled out in the coming weeks.
