Whatsapp Update

WhatsApp submits reply on 'username' notice; govt examining response

Meta-owned WhatsApp has submitted its reply to the government's notice on the "username" feature and the response is being examined, sources said on Thursday. The Centre issued a notice to Meta last Wednesday, questioning the proposed username feature on WhatsApp, flagging concerns that it could materially increase incidents of online fraud, phishing, digital-arrest scams and impersonation attacks. The username feature essentially allows people on the messaging platform to communicate without sharing their phone numbers. The Centre had also directed the platform not to launch the feature until consultations on the issue were completed "to the satisfaction of the government". Subsequently, WhatsApp had sought some more time to submit its response on the "username" feature and assured the government that it would not roll it out in India until discussions were complete. The sources told PTI that WhatsApp's reply has indeed been received by the information technology ministry and the

After India, Somalia raises concerns over WhatsApp username feature

Last week, India asked Meta to delay the rollout of the new feature, citing fears that it may fuel online fraud

Decoded: All about WhatsApp's username feature and why govt wants it paused

WhatsApp says usernames will let users connect without sharing phone numbers, but the government wants Meta to defer the rollout over impersonation and fraud concerns

WhatsApp's biggest update | Chat without sharing phone number: How will usernames work?

WhatsApp has started rolling out reservations for usernames, a feature that will let users connect with others without sharing their phone numbers.

WhatsApp introduces username: What is it, how it works, and how to reserve

WhatsApp has started username reservations, allowing users to claim a unique handle before the feature rolls out later this year for messaging without sharing phone numbers

WhatsApp will not work on these Android smartphones from September: Report

WhatsApp will stop working on older Android phones from September 2026, as it raises system requirements and adds new features, with users advised to back up chats or upgrade devices

WhatsApp reportedly testing paid 'Plus' tier with more features: What's new

Reportedly, WhatsApp is testing a paid 'Plus' tier with themes, stickers, icons, and more pinned chats, while core features like messaging, calls, and privacy remain free for all users

WhatsApp tests usernames to let users chat without sharing phone numbers

Reportedly, WhatsApp is testing usernames that let users chat without sharing phone numbers, improving privacy while making it easier to connect using unique handles instead of contacts

WhatsApp is testing built-in noise cancellation for voice and video calls

WhatsApp is reportedly testing a new noise cancellation feature in beta that reduces background sounds during calls, aiming to improve voice clarity for users in noisy environments

WhatsApp is testing a dedicated CarPlay experience for iPhone users: Report

WhatsApp is reportedly testing a native CarPlay app for iPhone users, allowing access to chats, calls, and contacts through a simplified interface designed for safer use while driving

WhatsApp adds multi-account support on iOS, adds more features: What's new

WhatsApp is rolling out updates, including dual accounts on iPhone, cross-platform chat transfer, smarter storage tools and new AI features for photo editing, along with writing assistance

WhatsApp launches parent-managed accounts for pre-teens: How to set up

WhatsApp is rolling out parent-managed accounts for pre-teens, allowing parents to control contacts, group access, and privacy settings while promising end-to-end encryption for chats

Your WhatsApp chats may soon get refreshed with updated chat bubbles

Reportedly, WhatsApp is rolling out redesigned chat bubbles in the latest Android beta, introducing softer, fully rounded message bubbles and a refreshed interface for text, images and videos

WhatsApp Plus subscription may bring themes, custom icons and more features

WhatsApp Plus plan could add app customisation, more pinned chats and exclusive stickers, while core messaging features are expected to remain free

WhatsApp may introduce anti-spoiler feature for text messages: What's new

WhatsApp is reportedly testing a new spoiler feature that hides text messages in chats, requiring users to tap the message bubble to reveal the hidden content

WhatsApp introduces 'Strict Account Settings' security feature: What is it

Following Apple and Google footsteps, Meta-owned instant messaging platform WhatsApp has introduces a lockdown-style security option to add extra layer of protection beyond what it offers as default

WhatsApp may let iPhone users share group chat history with new members

Reportedly, WhatsApp is testing a new iOS feature that lets users share up to 100 recent group messages with newly added members, helping them catch up instantly

WhatsApp for iOS may soon suggest emojis-based stickers in chat: What's new

Reportedly, WhatsApp is experimenting with emoji-based sticker suggestions on iOS, letting users send relevant stickers instantly while using emojis, without opening the sticker tray

WhatsApp introduces member tags, custom text stickers for group chats

WhatsApp has updated group chats with member tags, text stickers, and early event reminders to help users identify people, highlight messages, and keep track of plans

WhatsApp Web may soon unify status and channels under new 'Updates' tab

Reportedly, WhatsApp is working on a redesign for WhatsApp Web that will merge status updates and channels into a single Updates tab, offering a more consistent experience