Whatsapp update: Three features you should know

WhatsApp, which is one of the most widely used messaging platforms with over 200 million users has already rolled out a bunch of features in 2018 in order to keep the platform engaging. The messaging service has recently unveiled more convenience-oriented features including Swipe to Reply, Dark mode, message forwarding and more. Here are three features that WhatsApp is working on or is available for beta testers.

-WhatsApp is working on a 'Swipe to Reply' feature that will allow users to quickly reply to a message using a swipe gesture. While this feature is already available for iOS users, it is now all set to make its way to Android smartphones. With this feature, you will no longer need to tap and hold the message box to get the Reply button. One just needs to swipe right the message they want to reply to and the app will automatically load the message in the reply context. According to a WABetaInfo report, the Facebook-owned company has "recently submitted a new update through the Google Play Beta Programme, bringing the beta version up to 2.18.282." This feature is currently not available and is under development for further improvements, as per the report.

-WhatsApp is also working on Dark Mode feature for both Android and iOS, that will help reduce strain on user's eyes while using the app in dark, and will also help conserve battery, as per WABetaInfo. However, there’s no official word from the company but we expect this feature to be rolled out soon.

-The messaging platform keeps on adding new features for group chats. WhatsApp recently added a feature that gives more powers to admins to bar members from messaging on the group. Yes, you read it right. With this feature, admins get the right to decide who can send messages in the group but this doesn't mean that the member wouldn't be able to read the messages. To use this feature, head towards group settings - send messages. Here admins get two options — 'all participants' or 'only admins' can participate in the conversation. This feature is already available for both Android and iOS users.

Besides, last month, Google said that WhatsApp users will soon be able to back up their data to Google Drive without having to bother about it being added against the drive storage quota. This update will come into effect starting November 12, 2018. However, users are needed to back up their chat data to Google Drive at least once a year or else the backups will be automatically removed by the app.

Disclaimer: The above report is completely based on online rumours and leaks from the respective sources. These views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of Deccan Chronicle and/or other staff and contributors to this site.

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