Major WhatsApp changes that you need to know about
There are four major changes coming to online messaging platform WhatsApp. Here’s more info on what you need to know.
Online messaging platform WhatsApp is working on major changes to improve the app.
This is according to WABetaInfo which provides a breakdown of all the changes that WhatsApp is working on or has already made.
LATEST CHANGES ON WHATSAPP
According to WABetaInfo, the major changes which will give users a more pleasant experience when using WhatsApp.
SEARCH MESSAGE BY DATE
WhatsApp will now offer users a more efficient and convenient way to navigate their message history when searching for messages.
WhatsApp Web users will now be able to search messages by date.
“A calendar button is available while searching for messages in a conversation, which makes it possible for users to quickly open a date picker panel to search for a message shared on a specific date,” WABetaInfo said.
ALSO READ: New major changes regarding WhatsApp data transfer
ALTERNATIVE PROFILE
WhatsApp is also working on bringing alternative profile features to the app.
The alternative profile feature will allow users to create a different photo and name for contacts who cannot see their primary profile information.
For example, if contacts can only see one’s profile photo, people outside a user’s contact list will still see an alternative picture.
WABetaInfo said that the alternate profile feature can serve as a protective shield: it will add a new layer of security and privacy to the user experience as they finally have more control over their information.
ALSO READ: ‘Funding Afriforum’: Did Julius Malema and the EFF pay R300 000?
CHANNEL POLLS
WhatsApp is also reportedly working on adding polls to the recently launched Channels feature.
The polls will likely restrict responses to a single-choice, similar to what is found in the chats and groups feature.
WhatsApp will also ensure privacy, as phone numbers are not disclosed to the channel owner or followers.
“In our opinion, bringing a poll feature to channels may be very beneficial as it is the best tool to gather feedback from channel followers. We believe introducing polls can often encourage a more active interaction compared to simple emoji reactions,” WABetaInfo said.