WhatsApp Rolls Out 12 New Features: From Group Indicators to Channel QR Codes

Online Indicator in Groups You can now see which members are active in group chats, right under the group name.

Highlights-Only Notifications A new option lets you receive alerts only for mentions, replies, or messages from saved contacts, helping to cut through group notification noise.

Event Creation in 1-to-1 Chats Users can now create detailed events, RSVP as “maybe,” invite a guest, set an end date/time, and even pin events in a private chat.

Quick Reaction Matching Tap on someone else’s emoji reaction to instantly use the same one on a message.

Scan and Send Documents (iOS) iPhone users can now scan documents directly within WhatsApp, crop them, and send them without switching apps.

Set WhatsApp as Default App (iOS) In select regions, iOS users can make WhatsApp their default messaging and calling app via Settings > Default.

Pinch to Zoom in Video Calls (iOS) During video calls, iOS users can now zoom in on visuals using a simple pinch gesture.

Add Users Mid-Call You can now invite another contact to join a 1-to-1 voice or video call straight from the chat window.

Improved Video Call Quality WhatsApp now offers smoother, higher-quality video calls that upgrade to HD instantly if bandwidth permits.

Channel Video Recording Admins can record and send short 60-second videos to followers, adding a more personal touch to broadcast messaging.

Voice Message Transcripts for Channels Users can read transcripts of voice messages posted in channels, adding accessibility and convenience.

Channel QR Codes Admins can now generate a QR code that links directly to their channel, making it easier to share and grow their audience.