WhatsApp's New Features In 2025 So Far & Why They Matter

The technology space is constantly changing to adapt to the needs of modern generations. With Gen Z becoming an increasing visitors in the online space, the major social media platforms need to make necessary changes to improve their user experience.

With this, WhatsApp, a company under Meta, which also owns Facebook and Instagram, has quietly introduced a fresh batch of updates aimed at improving user experience across chats, calls, and Channels.

The new features are designed to make conversations more engaging, planning easier, and communication more seamless for users on both Android and iOS.

"With new features and updates being added all the time, it can be easy to miss out on useful and exciting ways you can use WhatsApp. To keep you in the loop, we’ll be sharing regular roundups of the latest updates, tools, and settings," WhatsApp, which currently boasts over 3.2 billion users globally as of this year, stated in its recent blog post.

Graphic demonstrating WhatsApp's new features. /WHATSAPP

"Today’s roundup includes features that have rolled out recently to make your conversations and calls more enjoyable and improve your Channels experience." Here’s a detailed look at what’s new:

Chat Updates: More Control In Conversations

Real-Time ‘Online’ Indicator in Group Chats

Users can now see how many members of a group chat are currently online. This real-time activity tracker appears just below the group name and makes it easier to tell if a conversation is active before jumping in.

Smarter Notifications with 'Highlight' Settings

Managing group chat noise is easier with the new ‘Notify for’ feature. Users can now choose:

• Highlights – receive alerts only for @mentions, replies, and messages from saved contacts.

• All – receive all notifications as usual.

This allows for more personalized and distraction-free messaging.

Enhanced Event Planning Tools

WhatsApp has expanded its event planning capabilities beyond group chats to one-on-one conversations. Users can now:

• Create events in personal chats

• RSVP as “Maybe”

• Add a plus one

• Include an end date/time

• Pin events within a chat for easy reference

Tappable Reactions

Reaction interactions have been streamlined. Users can now tap on an existing emoji reaction to add the same one to a message, speeding up simple acknowledgments.

Document Scanning for iPhone

iPhone users now have the option to scan and send documents directly within WhatsApp. The new “Scan Document” option in the attachment menu lets users scan, crop, and send documents on the go—no third-party apps needed.

WhatsApp as the Default App on iOS

iPhone users can now set WhatsApp as their default messaging and calling app. This can be done via: Settings > Default Apps > WhatsApp

Calls: Improved Quality And Flexibility

Pinch-to-Zoom on Video Calls (iOS)

iPhone users can now zoom in and out during video calls using a simple pinch gesture, offering a clearer view during remote conversations.

Add to Ongoing Calls from Chat

Users can add someone to an ongoing one-on-one call directly from a chat window by tapping the call icon and selecting “Add to call.”

Better Video Call Experience

Behind the scenes, WhatsApp has upgraded its call infrastructure. The platform now uses optimized routing for more reliable connections and faster upgrades to HD video quality, reducing lag, dropped calls, and video freezing.

Channels & Status: More Creative Tools For Admins

Video Notes in Channels

Channel admins can now record and share short videos (up to 60 seconds) directly with followers. The feature mirrors video notes in personal chats, allowing for more dynamic and personal content.

Voice Message Transcriptions

A new feature now transcribes voice messages posted in Channels, giving followers the option to read a message instead of listening—ideal for users in noisy environments or on the move.

Custom QR Codes for Channels

Admins can now generate unique QR codes that link directly to their WhatsApp Channel. This is especially useful for growing audiences via social media, posters, or in-person events.

Why This Matters To Users

These latest features signal WhatsApp’s continued evolution from a basic messaging app to a fully integrated communication platform. With upgrades to group chat controls, smarter notifications, better call quality, and more powerful admin tools for Channels, the platform is aiming to deliver more control and functionality without compromising on user privacy.

As WhatsApp continues to refine its tools, users are encouraged to keep their apps updated to access the latest features.

Image of a person using WhatsApp on his phone. /FORBES