WhatsApp, owned by Meta, has introduced a range of new features and design enhancements designed to make chats more interactive and creative, according to the company.
The updates, launched at the beginning of the new year, feature a variety of tools aimed at improving the visual appeal of messages, offering more personalized options, and simplifying user interactions.
Here are the details of the new features:
Camera enhancements
One of the standout new features is the addition of camera effects. WhatsApp now allows users to choose from a range of 30 backgrounds, filters, and effects while capturing and sharing photos or videos in their chats. These effects, which were once exclusive to video calls, are now available for everyday photo and video messages.
Users can easily personalize their content with these new options before sending it. Whether they want to add a fun background or enhance the image with a filter, the new camera effects make it simple to create more engaging and unique media.
This update gives users greater flexibility and creativity when sharing photos and videos, making interactions on WhatsApp even more dynamic and enjoyable. The expanded set of options ensures that users can customize their messages to better reflect their personal style.
Custom selfie stickers
WhatsApp has introduced a new feature for users who enjoy creating custom stickers. Now, users can easily transform their selfies into personalized stickers. By simply selecting the “create sticker” option, they can take a selfie, which the app instantly converts into a sticker ready to share with friends.
This feature streamlines the sticker creation process, allowing users to quickly add a personal touch to their messages. With just a few taps, users can turn their selfies into fun, customized stickers that enhance their chats.
Currently available on Android devices, this feature is set to roll out for iOS users in the near future, expanding the ability to create personalized stickers to a wider audience.
Share collections of stickers
WhatsApp has simplified the process of sharing sticker packs with others. Now, when users come across a sticker pack they think their friends would enjoy, they can easily share it within their chats. This new feature eliminates the need for friends to search for the same pack separately.
By streamlining the sharing process, WhatsApp makes it more convenient for users to exchange their favorite stickers. It’s now quicker and easier to spread fun, personalized sticker packs among friends.
This update enhances the social experience on WhatsApp, making it simple to share creative content without any extra hassle. Users can enjoy and send sticker packs with just a few taps.
Instant reactions
WhatsApp has rolled out faster reactions, allowing users to quickly double-tap a message to react. The app now displays a list of their most-used reactions, making it easier for users to respond with just a tap.
In addition, WhatsApp is introducing a reverse image search feature to help combat misinformation. Initially spotted in the Android beta, the feature is now available on WhatsApp Web Beta. Users can authenticate images shared with them using Google’s reverse image search to check if the image has been edited, manipulated, or misused.
The reverse image search feature offers convenience as users no longer need to download images. A shortcut will be added to WhatsApp Web, providing easy access to the reverse image search tool.
