WhatsApp for Android gets a slew of group-focused features
What's the story
WhatsApp has launched some new features on Android that are mostly focused on group chats. These include the ability to add a description to a group chat, option to search group participants, and allowing users to switch from a voice call to a video call. The features have been rolled-out globally and you can update WhatsApp from the Google Play Store to get them.
Group Descriptions
Add 512-character long group descriptions
Group descriptions aim at providing members with important information about the group. They are available on the chat screen as a pinned box and cannot be longer than 512 characters. Group descriptions are also visible when inviting someone via the group's invite link. To use the feature, go to the Group Info screen and then tap Add Group Description below the group name.
Participant Search
Search for group participants from the Group Info screen
In addition to group descriptions, WhatsApp for Android has updated to introduce a search bar on the Group Info screen inside group chats. This allows users to search the list of group participants directly from that space, without having to enter the chat. WhatsApp for iOS has already received the group participants search feature earlier this month.
Voice-to-Video Switch
Easy switch between voice and video calls
The latest update lastly includes the ability to switch from a voice call to a video call just by tapping a button. This feature aims at providing an easy switching experience between voice and video calls. Under this, a video button will appear during voice calls to give users the option to switch. The feature came on WhatsApp for iOS last month.