WhatsApp is working on a new feature that will allow users to add, reorder, or remove contacts in a specific order, according to a new report. The feature, called Favorites, was spotted in the latest beta version of WhatsApp for Android and is expected to allow users to set up speed dial contacts for easy access. The feature isn’t currently visible so beta testers won’t be able to use it, but it’s expected to be available in one of the upcoming updates.

The new feature was reported by WhatsApp tracker WABetaInfo, which claimed that the instant messaging platform is working on integrating a Favorites tab within the Settings menu. The feature was spotted in the WhatsApp beta update for Android 2.24.7.18. Although it is present in the application codes, it is not visible and users who joined the beta program will not be able to see it. The report noted that the feature is currently not researchable due to the same limitations.

WhatsApp Favorites tab
Photo credit: WABetaInfo

Based on a screenshot shared by the publication, the new settings option is somewhere in between Account and Privacy options. New option for Favorites it is now visible with the description “Add, Rearrange, Remove”. Opening the setting, the new screen mentions, “Make it easier to find the people and groups that matter most to you on WhatsApp.” While not much has been explained about the feature, it appears that users will be able to add their favorite contacts to create a speed dial-like interface from where they can quickly send messages to those they value most.

However, if this is the intended use case for the feature, it may be redundant to many users. Based on the screenshot, the feature is hidden under two different screens (Home screen > settings > Favorites), which would make its use cumbersome. The instant messaging app interface automatically pushes chats up where messages were last shared.

Furthermore, users also have the option to pin chats to the top for easy access. Existing mechanisms and features are aimed at saving favorite contacts and contacts with whom you communicate most often. This could also be useful for those users who want to keep a separate list of those contacts that they don’t contact often, but would like to easily access in certain situations. WhatsApp might shed more light on this feature if it goes public.