PressSplit
With an update, WhatsApp wants to ensure more order in the chat view. The new features should benefit users on all devices.
Munich – WhatsApp has announced a new update. It is intended to enable users to manage their chats and contacts more easily – a practical improvement, especially for people with many chats and contacts. The new update will be rolled out gradually and will be available to all users worldwide this year. The focus is on two new functions.
The biggest new feature of the update is the introduction of the list function, as WhatsApp explains on its website. The idea for this function is based on the chat filter that WhatsApp introduced at the beginning of the year. The chat filter made it possible to search specifically for messages and find chats more quickly. Now WhatsApp has further developed the concept so that users can divide their chats into self-created categories.
WhatsApp brings “list” management for improved chat overview © IMAGO / Zoonar
Organize chats better: WhatsApp update brings new list function
You can use lists to sort chats according to your own preferences, for example into categories such as “Family”, “Work” or “Friends”. This means important conversations remain within reach and clear at all times. To create a list, simply tap the + symbol in the filter bar of the Chats tab. Lists that have already been created can be adjusted or deleted with a long press. Both individual and group chats can be added to the lists. The categories are then clearly arranged in the filter bar and are accessible at any time.
The new lists allow chats to be divided into individual groups. © WhatsApp
In addition to the list function, the update also brings WhatsApp Contact management improvements. Previously, you could only add new contacts via the WhatsApp mobile app by either typing in a phone number or scanning a QR code. With the new update, it will now be possible to add and manage contacts directly via WhatsApp Web and WhatsApp for Windows.
Improved contact management across multiple devices and more privacy with usernames instead of phone numbers
The innovation makes managing contacts much easier as it enables uniform use on different devices. An additional feature allows contacts to be saved exclusively in WhatsApp. These so-called WhatsApp contacts are ideal for users who share their phone with others or use separate WhatsApp accounts for private and business purposes. These contacts remain stored in WhatsApp even if the mobile device is lost or replaced with a new one.
WhatsApp usage will become more decentralized: In the future, users will be able to add new contacts from multiple devices. © WhatsApp
The update also brings a change that strengthens user privacy: In the future, contacts can be managed not only via telephone numbers, but also via user names. This eliminates the need to provide a phone number to contact a new person. WhatsApp hopes this will provide additional security gains, as users will be able to better protect their privacy when communicating with unknown people. The innovations will probably also change the design of the instant messaging service. (ls)
