WhatsApp rolls out new features for group chats
What's the story
WhatsApp has officially rolled out a slew of new features for group chats on both Android and iOS.
Some users might already be accessing these features since they have been in beta build for some time now.
The new features, applicable to existing and new group chats, give more control to both group admins and participants.
Group Description
Get a brief sense of groups' purpose with group description
The feature allows users to add descriptions to their group chats, much like individual status updates.
The maximum limit for a group description is 500 characters. New members will see the group description at the top of the chat.
The feature aims at describing "the purpose, guidelines, or topics for the group" by way of a short blurb.
Admin Controls
Control who can edit group info with expanded admin controls
Group chat admins can now choose who can edit the group's subject, icon, and description: all members or only group admins.
The feature aims at restricting unwanted edits and offering a certain level of moderation to huge and formal groups.
Further, admins can revoke the admin rights of other fellow admins and "group creators can no longer be removed from a group they started."
Group Catch Up
Quickly view messages that mention or reply to you
The "group catch up" or "mentions" feature lets users find those messages in which they have been mentioned or that are in reply to their messages by simply tapping on a new @ button that appears at the bottom right corner of the chat.
It allows users to catch up on a conversation and not miss any important messages addressed to them.
Participant Search
Search for group participants from the group info screen
WhatsApp has introduced 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.
Another functionality finally stops users from repeatedly getting added to groups they have left. This is aimed at protecting users and reducing spam group invitations.