Exciting new WhatsApp features launching in SA
You can look forward to even more convenient features on WhatsApp.
WhatsApp is by far one of the most popular apps in South Africa, and definitely the most popular instant messaging platform.
Although many other apps exist for quick, convenient communication, around 29 to 30 million South Africans choose WhatsApp, according to an analysis by DataReportal.
According to MyBroadband, this means that around 93.9% of South African online users use the app.
The impact WhatsApp has on the daily lives of South Africans needs no explanation; just think about your own daily use.
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No matter where you are or what device you have, WhatsApp has made it possible to communicate effectively and conveniently, while also offering many features to enhance the user experience.
Now, South African users can get excited about even more great features that will improve their overall WhatsApp experience.
Here are a few exciting new WhatsApp features launching in South Africa, according to MyBroadband:
Set notification reminders for individual messages and missed calls
This feature allows users to set WhatsApp to deliver a detailed reminder about a marked message after a selected time—such as two hours, eight hours, a day, or a custom interval.
A bell icon will appear beside the message's timestamp to indicate it's been marked.
Users can also use this function to set reminders for returning missed calls.
Secret keys for username chats
This feature lets users create a PIN that must be entered by anyone trying to start a chat with them via their username instead of their phone number.
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Anyone attempting to message a user with a username key enabled will need to enter the correct PIN before initiating the conversation.
Import profile pictures from Instagram and Facebook
This feature allows users to import a profile picture for WhatsApp directly from Facebook or Instagram, if their accounts are linked in the Meta Accounts Centre.
Night mode within in-app camera
Users can now activate night mode within WhatsApp's in-app camera to capture clearer photos and videos in low-light settings, eliminating the need to use a separate camera app and attach media afterward.
Additionally, WhatsApp is introducing a filter button, allowing users to apply various effects to images and videos directly within the in-app camera.
Meta AI voice chats
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This feature enables users to interact with Meta’s AI assistant using voice commands instead of typing.
Currently, voice interactions can be initiated from either the Calls or Chats tabs.
Get notifications for status or channel updates
This setting allows users to receive notifications for status updates from specific contacts, making it easier to stay updated on posts from family and friends.
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