WhatsApp latest updates: 5 recent changes and why they are important

WhatsApp new updates: The Facebook-owned chat app is leaving no stone unturned to keep users hooked. In recent times, the messaging app has introduced several changes to its platform. WhatsApp has been in the news for the last few weeks for trying to fight the scourge of fake news on its platform. The government of India had warned the messaging app against the misuse of its platform and asked it to find a technology-based solution to end the spread of fake news:   

Some of the new WhatsApp updates are being tested by Android beta testers. Take a look at five of them: 

1. WhatsApp for Android beta version 2.18.246:

This beta version of WhatsApp comes with a revamped "Report" feature that allows you to report, block and save chat history of individuals as well as groups. This update is important as it will allow you to save chat history of someone you have blocked, or reported, for future reference. The feature also works for group chats. 
Currently, the most recent update is available only for Android beta testers. A public rollout is expected soon. 

2. WhatsApp Picture In Picture mode for Android:

The chat app's 2.18.234 version, which was submitted to Google Beta Program recently, is said to enable you to watch YouTube and Instagram videos in WhatsApp using the Picture In Picture mode. The feature is not yet available for the public. But, Wabetainfo.com reports that the company is working very hard to add this update to its platform. When available to the public, this feature will come handy when you want to watch Youtube or Instagram videos.

ALSO READ | WhatsApp gets a new update: Know why it is useful and how to get the latest addition

3. WhatsApp Group Calling for Voice and Video

WhatsApp announced the group calling for voice and video feature on July 30. Its official blog said, "You can make a group call with up to four people total - anytime and anywhere. Just start a one-on-one voice or video call and tap the new "add participant" button in the top right corner to add more contacts to the call." The group calls are end-to-end encrypted and it can work around the world in different conditions, it added. 

4. WhatsApp forwarded message limit:

n a bid to curb the menace of fake news spread on its platform, WhatsApp added some new features. WhatsApp has now put a limit to messages you can forward daily. "In India - where people forward more messages, photos, and videos than any other country in the world - we'll also test a lower limit of 5 chats at once and we'll remove the quick forward button next to media messages," WhatsApp said on its blog. Before this WhatsApp had started labelling forwarded messages. 

5. New GIF/Stickers for WhatsApp Web:

On July 31, Wabetainfo.com spotted GIF sharing tool on the chat app. Wabetaifo said that WhatsApp is currently working on this feature for an upcoming update. This feature will make your interactions through WhatsApp more interesting.