Tag: WhatsApp

  • Start WhatsApp Video Calls Directly from Messages with Google

    Start WhatsApp Video Calls Directly from Messages with Google

    Google appears to be looking into ways to make communication easier by adding third-party video calls right within its Messages app.

    New Features in Testing

    A new article from Android Authority indicates that the tech giant is currently trialing a feature that would let users start WhatsApp video calls without leaving the messaging app. Assemble Debug from Android Authority successfully activated and tested this feature during an APK teardown of Google Messages version 20250131. The process looks to be quite simple.

    How It Works

    If both users have WhatsApp set up, tapping the video call button in Google Messages will start a WhatsApp video call. In cases where the recipient lacks WhatsApp, the call will probably switch to Google Meet instead. At this moment, the feature seems to be limited to one-on-one chats, but the report hints that it might be available for group chats when the stable version comes out. Right now, starting a video call in Google Messages defaults to Google Meet, which means both users must have Meet installed, be logged into their Google accounts on both Messages and Meet, and have a phone number that works with LTE calling. Although this setup works, it isn’t always the easiest, especially since many people use other video calling platforms.

    Future Prospects

    While Google is currently testing this integration with WhatsApp, there’s no official announcement on when it might be available for everyone. It’s likely that Google will first test it in beta versions to gather user feedback before making it widely available. It remains uncertain what the specific requirements will be for WhatsApp to become the primary option for video calls. Will users have the option to choose between WhatsApp and Google Meet prior to making a call? Google hasn’t clarified this yet.

    It would also be beneficial if Google broadened this integration to include regular internet voice calls, not just video calls.

    Source:
    Link

    Start WhatsApp Video Calls Directly from Messages with Google
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  • WhatsApp Introduces Music Feature for Status Updates

    WhatsApp Introduces Music Feature for Status Updates

    WhatsApp is rolling out a thrilling new feature that lets users add music to their status updates. First noticed during the development of the 2.24.22.11 beta update, this feature is now being trialed with a larger group through the recent WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.25.2.5, which is available on the Google Play Beta Program.

    Music for Status Updates

    According to WABetaInfo, the “Music for Status Updates” feature introduces a music button in the status editor, giving users access to Meta’s vast library of tracks, similar to what is available on Instagram. This allows users to search for their favorite songs, trending hits, or particular artists and include them in their photo or video status updates, creating a more immersive experience.

    Simple and Intuitive Workflow

    Beta testers who have the feature report that the process is quite straightforward. After picking a song, users can opt for a 15-second clip for images or adjust the length depending on the video’s duration. Viewers are able to see the song title and artist displayed, along with an option to check out the artist’s Instagram profile right through WhatsApp.

    This fresh feature not only makes WhatsApp statuses more attractive but also connects functionality across Meta platforms, complementing features that are already favored on Instagram. While it’s currently available only to a select group of beta testers, WhatsApp is likely to gradually expand the feature to more users in the upcoming weeks. To give it a shot, make sure you’re on the latest beta version of WhatsApp.

    Exciting Developments on Instagram

    In related news, Instagram announced a new video editing app called Edits, set to launch in March 2025. This app comes with advanced features like AI effects, green screens, and the ability to export without watermarks, providing smooth integration with Instagram for real-time feedback. As TikTok faces regulatory issues, Edits seeks to lure creators and bolster Instagram’s position in the realm of short-form video content.

    Source:
    Link

    WhatsApp Introduces Music Feature for Status Updates
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  • WhatsApp Ending Support for These Android Devices in 2025

    WhatsApp Ending Support for These Android Devices in 2025

    As technology keeps moving forward, older devices struggle to match up with new software updates. WhatsApp, a leading messaging app globally, faces the same issue. From January 1, 2025, WhatsApp will stop supporting various older Android phones, signaling the conclusion for gadgets launched over ten years ago.

    WhatsApp’s End of Support for Old Android Phones

    WhatsApp has revealed the list of Android phones that will lose support come January 1, 2025. This decision mainly stems from the app’s ongoing transformation. With the recent addition of groundbreaking features like Meta AI, which allows users to inquire, create images, and craft content within the app, maintaining compatibility with older Android versions has become a significant challenge.

    Devices operating on Android KitKat (4.4), introduced in 2013, will be unable to access WhatsApp. Even though the app will still be installed, users won’t be able to connect with Meta’s servers, making it impossible to use the messaging and other functions.

    List of Phones Affected

    Here are the phones that will be affected:

    • Samsung: Galaxy S3, Galaxy Note 2, Galaxy Ace 3, Galaxy S4 Mini (2013)
    • Motorola: Moto G (1st Gen), Razr HD, Moto E (2014)
    • HTC: One X, One X Plus, Desire 500, Desire 601
    • LG: Optimus G, Nexus 4, G2 Mini, L90
    • Sony: Xperia Z, Xperia SP, Xperia T, Xperia V

    The complete list includes devices that were released between 2012 and 2014, which are now deemed outdated for WhatsApp’s advanced needs.

    WhatsApp consistently introduces new features to enhance user experience, but older Android versions impose restrictions that limit innovation. If WhatsApp were to continue supporting legacy devices, it would have to modify its features to fit the limitations of outdated hardware, hindering the app’s advancement.

    Time to Upgrade?

    For those who still depend on these older gadgets, upgrading to a newer Android phone that can run modern software and support WhatsApp’s latest capabilities is the only fix.

    Since these devices have been around for over a decade, it’s likely that many users have already moved to newer models. However, for those still using these older phones, an upgrade is crucial for uninterrupted use of WhatsApp and other contemporary applications.

    This decision from WhatsApp underscores the necessity of adapting to new technology to enjoy a smooth user experience. If your phone appears on the list, now is the ideal moment to think about switching to a more current Android device.

    Source: Link

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  • WhatsApp Beta Update Causes Surprising Green Screen Issue

    WhatsApp Beta Update Causes Surprising Green Screen Issue

    The WhatsApp beta channel has recently released version 2.24.24.5. This update introduces a "Draft" label in the chat list for messages that are left unsent. Additionally, it aims to enhance performance and address some bugs that were previously present. Nevertheless, as users testing the beta version report, a new bug has appeared that causes the screen to turn green when opening a chat.

    Green Screen Issue Explained

    Luckily, this is not the same green screen problem that would necessitate display replacement or repair. Instead, it simply shows a solid green color while entering a chat and disappears once you exit WhatsApp. However, this isn’t the only concern affecting the new beta version.

    Startup Crashes Reported

    Users are also mentioning that the beta app crashes when starting up, rendering WhatsApp unusable. Naturally, this sort of thing isn’t surprising because beta versions of applications typically lack the stability of their public release versions.

    For those testers encountering these problems, the best course of action is to revert back to the stable build, which seems to be free from the green screen and startup crash issues. It’s important to understand that WhatsApp beta versions are released as app bundles rather than regular APKs, and due to certain restrictions in Android, rolling back to an older version isn’t straightforward.

    Recommended Solution

    Thus, the ideal solution is to uninstall the beta version and install the current stable version of WhatsApp (2.24.22.79). You can find the installer on APKMirror, a trusted source for Android applications. Given that many users are reporting these problems, it is likely that the developers will soon provide a fix.

    Source: Android Police, Android Authority

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  • Meta Layoffs Impact WhatsApp and Instagram Teams

    Meta Layoffs Impact WhatsApp and Instagram Teams

    Although Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram (including its sibling Threads) are still widely used, Meta is still continuing with layoffs. This situation began in 2022, when at least 11,000 employees were let go. The reasoning back then was due to growth being much lower than anticipated as the pandemic came to an end. Mark Zuckerberg described 2023 as a "year of efficiency," and it concluded with another 10,000 job cuts. Recently, sources close to the situation disclosed that Meta is letting go of even more staff, although the exact number remains undisclosed.

    Changes in the Company

    Meta’s spokesperson, Dave Arnold, spoke with The Verge yesterday. He stated, "Today, a few teams at Meta are making changes to ensure resources are aligned with their long-term strategic goals and location strategy." He went on to mention that this new round of changes also involves relocating certain teams and adjusting the roles of some employees in addition to job reductions.

    Departments Affected

    While Arnold didn’t specify which departments are affected, earlier insiders indicated that WhatsApp, Instagram, and Reality Labs are likely being impacted. Jane Manchun Wong, who joined the Threads team last year and gained fame for reporting on undisclosed features in apps, was one of those who shared this news on her social media platforms.

    Recommended Read

    Even though Mark Zuckerberg’s biography by Daniel Ichbiah was released in June 2022 and doesn’t cover the last couple of years, it could still be an intriguing read for those interested in Meta and its leader. This 300-page book is available exclusively in Kindle format for $6.

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  • WhatsApp Exit: Can India & WhatsApp Reach Middle Ground?

    WhatsApp Exit: Can India & WhatsApp Reach Middle Ground?

    WhatsApp has issued a warning that it may cease operations in India if it is compelled to compromise its end-to-end encryption. The messaging service, alongside Meta (its parent company), has lodged a petition at the Delhi High Court disputing India's 2021 IT regulations for social media intermediaries. Their main objection revolves around the mandate to identify the original source of information and share it with governmental authorities.

    WhatsApp's Stand Against Indian Regulations

    The current clash between WhatsApp and the Indian government stems from the requirement to expose the source of information, a move that could potentially jeopardize user privacy.
    WhatsApp's primary concern is the demand to identify message originators, a process that conflicts with their end-to-end encryption policy, designed to safeguard user data.

    The Debate Over Privacy vs. Security

    While the government argues that tracing message originators is crucial to combat harmful content, WhatsApp emphasizes that breaking encryption violates users' fundamental right to privacy.
    The platform highlights the extensive data storage implications and the potential breach of privacy rights if forced to compromise encryption protocols.

    The legal battle between WhatsApp and the Indian government has reached the Delhi High Court, with a scheduled hearing on August 14 for the petitions submitted by the messaging giant and Meta.
    The outcome of this conflict will not only impact WhatsApp's operations in India but also underscores the necessity for India to establish robust data privacy laws to protect user information and uphold privacy standards.

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  • WhatsApp to enable cross-platform messaging in compliance with EU regulations

    WhatsApp to enable cross-platform messaging in compliance with EU regulations

    WhatsApp, owned by Meta, is preparing to offer cross-platform messaging. This means WhatsApp users will soon be able to communicate directly with those on apps like Telegram or Signal.

    WhatsApp’s Integration Efforts

    For the past two years, WhatsApp has been developing a technical solution for this integration while ensuring its strict end-to-end encryption standards remain in place.

    Mandated Integration

    While this change offers greater messaging choice, it wasn’t entirely WhatsApp’s idea. It’s more of a restriction for the company, at least at the moment, since recent EU legislation designated Meta a tech “gatekeeper”, mandating WhatsApp to open its communication platform within a six-month deadline.

    Functionality and Rollout

    WhatsApp is now outlining how this messaging interoperability will function as the deadline is nearing. Initially, the focus will be on basic features like exchanging texts, images, videos, voice messages, and files between individuals.

    More advanced features like calls and group chats will be rolled out later. But more importantly, users must actively opt-in to this cross-platform messaging to avoid potential “spam and scams” says Dick Brouwer, an engineering director at WhatsApp.

    Users who opt-in for the service will see conversations received from other platforms in a separate “third-party chats” section within WhatsApp.

    Likewise, the messaging apps wishing to connect with WhatsApp will need to sign agreements and abide by Meta’s terms. So, it will certainly take time to fully implement this feature, but detailed plans are expected in March.

    The Goal of Interoperability

    The goal of interoperability is pretty straightforward — you shouldn’t have to jump between apps to stay in touch with people, regardless of their preferred messaging platform.

    Ideally, this could even mean chatting between WhatsApp and Telegram or Signal, or even iMessage. However, the technical and security challenges of connecting large, encrypted messaging apps are pretty significant and not easy.

    So despite the company’s active preparation, it will take time for cross-platform messaging to reach everyday users. We expect official details about interoperability on WhatsApp to come out soon.

    WhatsApp to enable cross-platform messaging in compliance with EU regulations
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  • WhatsApp tests new file sharing feature akin to Android’s Quick Share.

    WhatsApp tests new file sharing feature akin to Android’s Quick Share.

    WhatsApp Unveils New Feature for Bluetooth File Sharing

    Effortless Sharing of Files

    The latest addition to WhatsApp allows users to seamlessly share files of up to 2GB via Bluetooth. This functionality eliminates the necessity for an internet connection, streamlining the process of transferring files.

    Operational Procedure

    • Both individuals must be within the "Share Files" segment.
    • To commence the transfer, simply shake your respective devices.

    Emphasis on Privacy and Security

    • The implementation of end-to-end encryption guarantees privacy.
    • Throughout the transfer, the concealment of phone numbers is maintained.

    Contrasting Attributes with Google and Samsung’s Quick Share

    • Unlike Google and Samsung’s Quick Share, which utilizes Bluetooth alongside another Bluetooth feature.
    • The potential advantage lies in WhatsApp’s feature being accessible on both iOS and Android platforms.

    Final Remarks

    WhatsApp’s integration of Bluetooth file sharing presents users with a swift and user-friendly method for file exchanges, potentially augmenting the overall file transfer experience for WhatsApp’s user base.

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  • WhatsApp’s Latest Beta Version Unveils New AI Chatbot Shortcut

    WhatsApp’s Latest Beta Version Unveils New AI Chatbot Shortcut

    WhatsApp Unveils Revolutionary AI Chatbot Functionality

    WhatsApp is elevating its user interaction by incorporating advanced artificial intelligence (AI) technology into its platform. Following successful trials of AI-generated stickers, the renowned messaging service has now unveiled an AI chatbot feature currently undergoing beta testing. This significant revelation took place during Meta Connect 2023.

    Simplifying Communications Through AI Integration

    Within the most recent WhatsApp update (version 2.23.24.26) accessible via the Google Play Beta Program, users will observe a fresh shortcut located in the Chats section. Positioned above the newly introduced chat icon, this shortcut offers a direct pathway for users to engage in AI-enhanced conversations without the hassle of scrolling through their contact roster.

    The primary objective of this enhancement is to amplify user convenience and productivity by streamlining the process of initiating AI-guided chats within the application. Although the AI chatbot function is presently limited to a select group of beta testers, it is expected to be gradually introduced to a broader user base in the upcoming days.

    Anticipate a Range of Dynamic Beta Features

    Alongside the AI chatbot capability, WhatsApp is actively developing a series of captivating beta features. Among these is a secret code that grants users access to secured chats, introducing an additional security layer for enhanced privacy. Another impending feature involves the implementation of a distinct profile option, facilitating the seamless differentiation between professional and personal communications.

    These imminent enhancements are poised to render WhatsApp even more adaptable and user-centric, catering to the diverse requirements of its wide user base.

    Source: Gizmochina

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  • Introducing WhatsApp Beta’s New Feature: Secure Hidden Codes for Locked Chats

    Introducing WhatsApp Beta’s New Feature: Secure Hidden Codes for Locked Chats

    WhatsApp Introduces Secret Code Feature for Locked Chats

    WhatsApp is constantly improving its user experience through beta testing, where selected users assist in identifying and resolving bugs, refining features, and assessing functionality. Beta testers are given early access to new innovations, allowing for the detection of potential glitches and ensuring stable updates before a global release.

    New Beta Update: Version 2.23.24.20

    In its latest beta update (version 2.23.24.20), WhatsApp has introduced a secret code feature for locked chats. This feature is currently available to some beta testers and aims to enhance privacy by allowing users to hide the entry point to view locked chats.

    How Does the Secret Code Feature Work?

    With the secret code feature, users can configure a secret code that will make the entry point disappear from the chat list. Instead, users can access locked chats by entering the secret code in the Chats tab's search bar. Additionally, WhatsApp is adding a new feature that enables users to easily clear their list of locked chats directly from the privacy settings. This is particularly useful for users who may forget their secret code, as it prevents them from being locked out of their conversations.

    Enhanced Privacy and Security

    The secret code feature ensures that locked conversations remain hidden, safeguarding sensitive information from unauthorized access or accidental exposure. Even if someone gains physical access to a user's phone, they will not be able to access these secured conversations without the secret code.

    Gradual Rollout and Future Updates

    WhatsApp plans to gradually roll out the secret code feature to more users in the coming weeks. The company aims to gather feedback and make any necessary improvements before potentially releasing it as a stable update in the future.

    Ongoing Development of New Features

    Aside from the secret code feature, WhatsApp is also working on other features to further enhance user privacy and convenience. One of these features includes the ability to hide IP addresses during calls, providing an additional layer of privacy. Additionally, WhatsApp is developing an alternate profile feature that allows users to separate their work and personal communication within the app.

    In-App Ads Confirmed by WhatsApp Head

    Furthermore, WhatsApp has confirmed its intention to introduce in-app ads. The head of WhatsApp has acknowledged this plan, indicating that users can expect to see advertisements within the app in the future.

    WhatsApp remains committed to continuously improving its platform and ensuring a seamless user experience. Through beta testing and the introduction of new features, the company aims to provide enhanced privacy, security, and functionality for its global user base.

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