WhatsApp will only remind users of missed messages from frequent contacts
WhatsApp has begun rolling out a new feature to beta testers, aimed at helping users stay on top of received messages. Previously limited to reminding users about missed status updates, the reminders feature now includes the ability to alert users about unread messages.
In the latest beta version for Android, WhatsApp will prioritize notifications for updates and messages from key contacts, as noted by a feature tracker. After updating to WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.25.29 (as reported by WABetaInfo), the feature description under Settings > Notifications > Reminders now states that the app will occasionally send reminders for unread messages, in addition to missed status updates.
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Once enabled, users will receive notifications about messages they might have missed. WhatsApp has not yet provided specific details about how the feature functions or whether it will remind users of unseen messages and status updates from all contacts. According to WABetaInfo, the Reminders feature will prioritize messages from specific contacts, determined by user interactions within the app. The algorithm responsible for generating these reminders runs locally on the user's device, meaning the contact list will refresh after a fresh installation of WhatsApp.
The feature appears to be designed to avoid overwhelming users by limiting reminders to select conversations, rather than sending notifications for all messages and status updates. It is expected to roll out to more beta testers soon, with a potential full release to all WhatsApp users in the future.
For the unversed, WhatsApp is rolling out a new Typing Indicators feature, replacing the 'Typing' text with a '...' visual cue and the profile picture of the person typing. Initially spotted in beta, the update aims to enhance real-time engagement and is now available to all Android and iOS users. WhatsApp's new Typing Indicators feature helps users quickly identify who is typing by displaying profile pictures, particularly useful in group chats. The app also introduced Voice Note Transcription, allowing users to read voice messages instead of listening to them, with transcripts generated on the device to maintain end-to-end encryption.
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