WhatsApp is currently testing a new threaded reply feature designed to enhance organization and simplify conversations, particularly in group chats. This feature is in the beta stage (version 2.25.7.7) and aims to group replies to specific messages in an expandable view. This innovation will help users avoid scrolling back through chats to keep track of responses. The threaded replies are expected to work across various chat types, including one-on-one, group conversations, communities, and channels.
The goal is to improve clarity and flow in discussions. WhatsApp is already known for its straightforward messaging capabilities, allowing users to send messages, make calls, update their statuses, and join communities intuitively. To streamline conversations even further, WhatsApp’s new feature takes inspiration from platforms like iMessage and Slack, which already utilize threaded conversations. This move follows Google Messages’ recent efforts to implement threaded replies for multimedia content.
Although the threaded replies feature has not been officially launched yet, users have glimpsed it in action within the beta version, as reported by WABetaInfo. Unlike the traditional threading seen on platforms like Reddit, WhatsApp’s system organizes replies under a dedicated expandable view rather than displaying them fully connected together. When users tap a reply to a message, the view appears, showcasing the original message and subsequent replies, making it easier to follow conversations without backtracking. In one-on-one chats, this view will show replies exchanged between the two participants, while in group chats, it will compile all contributions for a clear conversational flow.
This feature is still under development, and experiences may vary among users. Additionally, WhatsApp has been working on a privacy feature that allows users to answer video calls with their camera off, similar to functionalities in Zoom and Google Meet.
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