Nine major changes WhatsApp is making that you need to know about

WhatsApp is making some big changes to the app, according to a portal which tracks its developments. 

When WhatsApp tests new features, it uses a special beta version of the app, and those at WABetaInfo mine for this information, giving us a sneak peek at upcoming updates. 

There are nine changes in development, with some available on your device right now. 

Others may take weeks or months to come, or even be scrapped altogether. 

What are the new changes?

There are nine features to keep an eye out for: 

The ability to filter unread chats

On the beta app, WhatsApp tested out a filter to go through unread chats. 

According to WABetaInfo, a new filter button will be placed next to a search bar. When you use the unread chat filter, WhatsApp will list all your unread chats - making it easier to manage them. 

WhatsApp message reactions on Windows (available now)

This new feature allows you to react to WhatsApp messages, with six emojis: like, love, laugh, surprised, sad and thanks. 

You can see who reacted to a message by tapping the reaction icon at the bottom of the chat bubble. 

Reacting to messages using any emoji

In a recent update, WhatsApp added the feature to react to a message with a selection of emojis.

But now, WABetaInfo has suggested Whatsapp will develop a draggable section to easily select any emoji you want when reacting to a message. 

However, this update is under development, and the release date is not known. 

Business profiles getting cover photos

For some profiles, WhatsApp may add a feature allowing a new banner to show up at the top of your chat list. 

The feature is available for business profiles and will be rolled out to users soon. 

Message and mute people on WhatsApp calls (available now)

Will Cathcart, the head of WhatsApp, tweeted on 16 June 2022, that on a call, you can now mute or message specific people. 

This is especially handy for group calls, or if the person forgets to mute themself! 

Migrating chats from Android phones to iPhone (available in beta)

You will soon be able to move your chat history from Android to iOS with the latest feature of WhatsApp. 

However, you will need to have at least an Android 5 and an iOS15.5 software.