WhatsApp is exploring new features for its messaging app, with one standout feature allowing users to share files over a local network, bypassing the need for an internet connection. Additionally, the platform is testing a contact notes feature that will allow users to add personalized notes to individual contacts.
The local file sharing feature, revealed via screenshots from WhatsApp's Android beta version 2.24.9.22 (courtesy of WABetaInfo), reveals that users could share various types of files, such as photos and documents, with nearby WhatsApp users via a local network, without using mobile data or an internet connection. To enable this feature, users must log in to be discoverable by nearby users. However, they can revoke this consent at any time, giving the user control over their visibility.
Additionally, WhatsApp assures users that file sharing via this method will be end-to-end encrypted, maintaining the same level of security that WhatsApp messages are known for.
Another feature in development is the ability to add notes to contacts. Screenshots from the Android beta version 2.24.9.17 show a new field on the contact sheet where users can add personal notes about their contacts. These notes are only visible to the user who created them and are not shared with the contacts themselves. This feature is expected to be available on both the mobile app and WhatsApp Web.
These features are currently in beta testing and there is no official word on their release date. However, if user feedback during testing is favorable, these features could become part of a WhatsApp update soon.
Previous reports indicated that WhatsApp may introduce a new feature designed to improve user interaction. This upcoming feature, identified during beta testing, aims to highlight recent online contacts so users can easily start conversations with people they've recently interacted with.
Spotted by WABetaInfo during beta testing, this upcoming feature is expected to give users an easier way to connect with friends, family, and colleagues who are currently active or were recently online.
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Published: Apr 23, 2024 10:57 PM IST