In comingdays one can expect picture-in-picture (PIP) mode,tap to unblock, group call and an option for private replies in groups features being added to WhatsApp beta. As per a leak by WABetaInfo. It is also reported that all the beta users may not get theupdate as it might be a selective rollout.
The PIP mode ensures that the selected video or a video chat appears as a new window with what looks like a newer user interface from WhatsApp. WhatsApp is also looking to add a feature where a user can just tap on someone’s name to unblock a person. Interestingly,option of group calls may be soon released on Whatsapp. Though, iOS users will be the first one to get it.
Another feature that is being tested will allow reply option in group chat on long pressing on the reply option where ‘Reply privately’ will pop up.
WhatsApp is reportedly working on another feature as well that will give more power to the group admins. Dubbed as Restricted Groups,the company has submitted the feature via Google Play Beta version in the version 2.17.430. The new feature will allow group administrators to restrict a member from sending text messages, images, videos, GIFs, documents, voice messages or starting a new live location session. Once a user is restricted, he or she can send the message to the admin via a new ‘Message Admin’ button. Further, the admins will have the ability to disable chat features, meaning that only admins could interact with each other and not the other participants. A normal participant can only read incoming messages and cannot respond to them. Further, WhatsApp will “WhatsApp will prevent the group creator to be deleted from the group by other administrators.
This will help the group creator to have the full control of the group. The administrators will be able to choose if other participants can modify the subject of the group, its icon and its description,” the report added. The new feature will be available for both Android and iOS users, however, it is not when the Facebook-owned Messaging application will roll out to the public.
WhatsApp had recently launched two new features exclusively for its iOS app – Lock Record Button and a new Picture-in-Picture mode for YouTube videos. The Picture-in-Picture mode will allow users to play YouTube videos directly in the application, instead of pausing the conversation. With this, whenever a person receives a link to a video, the WhatsApp will instantly play it in the chat box, rather than switching to the YouTube. Additionally, the company has also made some improvements to the voice recording feature. Earlier, to record a voice note, one had to long press the icon to record a message. But with the new update, the user will be able to lock the record button and release it later once the message is completed. However, the option is disabled currently and expected to go online in few days.
Meanwhile, the company is reportedly working on a new feature that will allow users to switch between voice and video calls quite easily. The latest feature has been spotted on the latest Android beta version 2.17.163. The app will come loaded with a new button that will allow users to quickly switch from voice to video calls without stopping the voice calls in progress. The recipient will have an option to reject the incoming Video call as well.