WhatsApp for Android is reportedly working on a new feature that will allow users to add and filter favorite conversations for easier access. This feature is under development and is reportedly available to testers who have registered through the Google Play beta program. Once it’s in beta, those users will be able to see and test the feature. Notably, WhatsApp is also reportedly testing unread messages and group filters that will display certain conversations.
WhatsApp beta is testing a new favorites filter
Feature tracker WABetaInfo has spotted a new feature on WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.12.7. This feature allows users to separate their favorite conversations using a new filter. It will probably be helpful for those who get a lot of messages from several people and find it difficult to find their regular contacts. Although there is also a chat pinning feature, the platform only allows a maximum of three pinned chats.
WhatsApp Favorites filter
Photo credit: WABetaInfo
The publication also shared a screenshot of the feature. In the picture you can see four new filters at the top of the screen (below the WhatsApp logo). The all, Unreadand groups the filters were supposedly added earlier. Now, the fourth Favorites the filter can also be seen.
WhatsApp Favorites Chat filter: How it works
The feature description reads: “Make it easier to find the people and groups that matter most to you on WhatsApp.” At the bottom is an “Add to Favorites” option that you can click to manually add contacts to this list.
WABetaInfo also claims that users can also remove and reorder conversations to their liking. Since the feature is rolling out in beta, not all beta testers may see it right away, but it’s likely to roll out over the next few days.
WhatsApp extends voice message duration for beta testers
Separately, WhatsApp recently increased the maximum duration of voice messages in status updates. Earlier users could only transmit 30-second voice messages, but now the instant messaging platform has extended the duration to one minute.
This feature has been rolled out on both Android and iOS. Additionally, the platform is also reportedly working on an Imagine shortcut that will allow users to generate AI-powered images. This feature is powered by Meta AI.
