10 new features that make WhatsApp the world’s favourite messaging app

With over three billion monthly active users globally, Meta’s WhatsApp stands as one of the most popular messaging and calling apps by a wide margin. Available across multiple platforms, this free app continues to evolve with new features and capabilities.

Recently, Meta has been rolling out numerous updates to WhatsApp, including a Llama-powered chatbot, an image generator, and the option to select favorites, among others. Meta has consistently introduced at least one new feature every month, enhancing the app's user experience.

Here are the top ten features Meta has added to WhatsApp over the past year:

1. AI Chatbot with Hindi Support
   WhatsApp, powered by Meta AI, became one of the first messaging platforms to feature a chatbot that understands and responds in Hindi. It can also create AI avatars, and Meta has announced that AI-powered image editing tools will soon be available on WhatsApp for free.

2. Favorites Tab
   A new update introduced the “favorites” tab, allowing users to categorize regular chats and prioritize important ones, like those with friends and family. This ensures important messages are never missed.

3. Video Calls with up to 32 Participants
   WhatsApp now supports video calls with up to 32 participants across devices. Additionally, it introduced screen sharing with audio, making it easier to share content during calls.

4. Organized Replies and Event Creation
   WhatsApp Communities have been improved with options for organizing replies and creating events, allowing users to respond and manage large gatherings more efficiently.

5. Group Chat Filter
   The app introduced a group chat filter, enabling users to easily organize and access their WhatsApp groups, similar to the favorites tab, making navigation more streamlined.

6. Private Voice Messages
   WhatsApp now offers private voice messages that automatically delete after being played, similar to disappearing photos, providing an ideal way to share confidential information.

7. Secret Code for Private Chats
   An update to the private chats feature allows users to set a unique security code for accessing certain chats, adding an extra layer of privacy beyond the phone lock code.

8. Multiple WhatsApp Accounts on One Phone
   WhatsApp now supports the use of two different accounts on a single device, making it convenient for users with dual SIM cards to maintain two accounts on the same app.

9. WhatsApp for Mac and iPad
   Meta introduced native WhatsApp apps for Mac and iPad, allowing users to pair these devices with their existing account to access the app on larger screens.

10. Silence Unknown Callers
    WhatsApp now automatically blocks calls from unsaved numbers, a useful feature for those who value privacy and prefer not to receive calls from strangers.

These additions are part of Meta’s continuous efforts to enhance WhatsApp. Future updates are expected to include features like resharing statuses, double-tap message reactions, and file sharing without an internet connection.