This is how you can access WhatsApp features before others
What's the story
Following reports that WhatsApp was testing two new features to be incorporated into the notifications panel, the Facebook-owned messaging service has now beta-rolled out the 'Mute' option on the notification panel.
However, the official release could be months away.
Yet, you can get your hands on the Android beta version.
Here's how.
Information
Disclaimer: Risks and other inconveniences you might face
Disclaimer: For iPhone users, the process involves complications and is much riskier than Android. Even for Android users, the WhatsApp beta version comes with several glitches and bugs that might ruin the experience. Therefore, your best bet is to try it with an old device.
Route #1
Signing up for WhatsApp beta via an internet browser
There are two ways to get your hands on the WhatsApp beta version for Android - you can either sign up via an internet browser or sign up on your smartphone via the Google Play Store.
For online registration, head to the WhatsApp beta page, click 'Become a Tester', and you're good to go.
You should receive a download link within a few hours.
Route #2
Signing up for WhatsApp beta via an Android smartphone
Signing up via your smartphone is also a simple process.
All you have to do is head to Google Play Store and search for WhatsApp.
Keep scrolling down till you find the 'Become a Beta Tester' section.
Then, simply tap the 'I'm In' button and tap 'Join' to confirm.
Your WhatsApp should update to the beta version.
Leaving the beta
How to leave the beta program if things get hairy
If, after getting the beta version, you find that it's crashing way too often for your liking or has too many glitches, you have the option to opt out of the beta programme.
To do so, head to the beta page via a web browser or go to Google Play Store on your smartphone.
You should see a 'leave the program' button for both.