WhatsApp continues to evolve by introducing new features. Every month, users can expect fresh updates to enhance their experience. In September 2024, WhatsApp rolled out several exciting features for its users. Some of these features are available in the stable version, while others are still in beta.
Here, I will explain all the new WhatsApp features added in September 2024 and how they improve the app. You can also know which WhatsApp features added in august
WhatsApp Features Released in September 2024 (Stable Version)
These features are available to everyone using the latest version of WhatsApp.
1. Create AI Images from Attachments
One of the most exciting features is the ability to create AI-generated images. Now, users can access Meta AI’s image creation tool directly from the attachment menu. This means you no longer need to leave the chat window to create and share an AI-generated image. It is available on both Android and iPhone. You can simply select the option and generate images quickly.
2. Reply from the Media Viewer Screen
WhatsApp has made replying to media files much easier. Previously, you had to exit the media viewer screen to reply. Now, when you open a photo or video in full screen, you can reply or react directly from the media viewer. The options to react and reply are placed in the corners of the screen, making it convenient for quick responses. This feature is available on both Android and iPhone.
3. Like Reaction for Status Updates
WhatsApp has added a Like reaction to status updates. When viewing someone’s status, you will now see a heart icon next to the text box. You can tap the heart icon to like the status. This feature, which was in beta last month, is now available for everyone on both Android and iPhone.
4. New Status Update Previews
WhatsApp has redesigned its status update feature to make it look more like Facebook stories. This design change is currently available only for some Android users. The new layout is rolling out in stages, and not everyone has received the update yet. The preview looks more polished, offering users a better experience when viewing status updates.
5. Voice Chat with Meta AI
WhatsApp has introduced a new feature where users can communicate with Meta AI using their voice. Instead of typing out questions or prompts, you can now record your voice and send it to Meta AI.
This is particularly useful when your hands are busy. The voice interaction with Meta AI is currently available for Android users. However, the AI might sometimes misunderstand prompts, especially with accents. Meta is expected to improve this feature over time.
WhatsApp Features Still in Beta (September 2024)
These upcoming features are still in the testing phase. Some users may have access to them, but they are not yet widely available.
6. Check Viewer’s Status Updates
WhatsApp is testing a feature where users can see status updates of their viewers. When you check who has viewed your status, you will notice a green ring around their profile if they have shared their status update. By tapping on their profile, you can directly view their status. This feature is still in beta and may take some time to reach stable versions.
7. Manage Contact Syncing
WhatsApp is working on giving users more control over contact syncing. Soon, you will be able to decide whether to sync your contacts across devices or not. You will also have the option to delete contacts, preventing their backup. This will make it easier to manage contacts when switching between multiple devices.
8. View Messages in Draft
WhatsApp is introducing a drafts feature that will help users keep track of unsent messages. This feature, similar to Instagram, shows your unsent messages as drafts. You will be able to see the draft from the main chat page, without opening individual chats. This feature is currently being tested on iPhones.
9. Create Call Links in WhatsApp Group Chats
WhatsApp is testing a feature that will allow users to create call links within group chats. Instead of calling the entire group at once, members can share a link, and those who are interested can join the call. This feature will prevent unnecessary notifications for group members who are not available to join the call.
10. New Meta AI Changes
Meta AI is introducing several new updates. One of the most significant changes is the introduction of the Llama 3.2 model, which supports multi-modality. This means users can interact with Meta AI in more ways than just text. You can now share images with Meta AI and edit them using prompts.
Additionally, WhatsApp will soon have a voice assistant, Meta Voice, similar to Google Assistant or Microsoft Copilot. You will be able to customize the voice, even selecting voices of celebrities.
11. Media Upload Status in Live Activities
WhatsApp for iPhone is adding a new live activity that shows the status of media uploads. If you are sharing a large file, you will be able to see its progress at the top of your screen, without having to open WhatsApp. This feature is still in the testing phase but should be available soon.
12. Create Custom Contact Lists
WhatsApp is testing a feature that allows users to create custom contact lists. You can add specific contacts, like office colleagues or friends, to a custom list. This will make it easier to find and message people without scrolling through long chat lists.
13. Transfer Community Ownership
WhatsApp is introducing a feature where community owners can transfer ownership to another member. If someone no longer wishes to be the owner, they can easily pass the role to someone else. This feature is particularly useful for large WhatsApp communities.
14. Mention Contacts in Status Updates
A new WhatsApp feature allows users to mention specific contacts in their status updates. When you mention someone in your whatsapp status, only they will receive an alert about it. Currently, you can mention up to five people in a single status update. This feature is still being tested and will likely be available soon.
WhatsApp is testing a new button that allows users to reshare status updates. People who are mentioned privately in a status can now reshare it as their own. The updated reshare button is more prominent, making its purpose clear.
16. New Default Chat Theme
WhatsApp is working on a new chat theme feature. Users will be able to choose from 12 different color presets and various wallpaper backdrops. The chat bubble colors will adjust to match the background, and you can switch between light and dark themes. This feature is still in beta but is close to being released.
17. Block Messages from Unknown Contacts
To reduce spam, WhatsApp is testing a new privacy setting that blocks messages from unknown contacts. If an unknown number sends too many messages in a short time, they will be blocked automatically. This feature is expected to roll out soon to improve user privacy.
18. Home Screen Badge Settings
WhatsApp is adding new badge settings to its Android app. Typically, when you open WhatsApp, the notification count on the home screen resets. With this new setting, you will be able to keep track of unread messages and missed calls without the badge counter disappearing.
19. Mark All Chats As Read
WhatsApp is testing a much-requested feature that allows users to mark all chats as read in one go. With just one tap, you can clear all unread message notifications, saving you time. This feature is still in beta but should be available soon.
20. Camera Effects and Filters
WhatsApp is expanding its effects and filters feature for photos. You will soon be able to apply AR filters and background effects to images before sending them. This feature is currently being tested on Android.
21. Create Polls in Status Updates
WhatsApp is experimenting with a new poll feature for status updates. Users will be able to add a poll sticker to their status, allowing others to vote on multiple options. However, the votes will remain private, and no one will know who voted for which option.
The Bottom Line
WhatsApp continues to bring new and innovative features every month. In September 2024, we saw several useful updates and new features in both stable and beta versions. From AI-generated images to voice interactions with Meta AI, WhatsApp is pushing the boundaries of what messaging apps can do.
These New WhatsApp Features Added in September 2024 aim to enhance user experience and make communication more efficient. As always, some features are still in testing, but we can expect them to be available for everyone soon. Keep an eye out for these updates as WhatsApp continues to evolve.
