WhatsApp plans to launch another app, will start monetization
What's the story
WhatsApp, the world's most popular messenger, has over 1.2 billion users; more than 200 million are in India. It recently released interesting features to streamline the interface and improve content-sharing, enhancing user experience. Reportedly, it is now working on two new things: a feature to seamlessly switch between voice and video calls on existing WhatsApp; and a second app for generating revenue. Know more!
Testing
New calling feature, changes in UI
WABetaInfo, a Twitter account that gives information about new WhatsApp features and changes by tracking the app's beta builds, said the messenger app is currently testing the new call feature. It would allow users to switch from voice to video calls and vice-versa to eliminate the need for disconnecting the ongoing call. WaBetaInfo also noticed some changes in WhatsApp's UI.
New Feature
No need to end voice/video calls to switch between them
Once the new call feature is launched, users would see a new video call button at the bottom of the screen while they are on a voice call. Tapping on the button would switch the call, activating the camera. After a video call is initiated, the recipient receives a notification asking if they want to accept or reject it.
Twitter Post
WhatsApp also testing reply to calls feature: WABetaInfo
WhatsApp beta for Android 2.17.163: new material design to reply to voice calls (the same for video calls too)! (DISABLED BY DEFAULT) pic.twitter.com/k2MIs2pf34
— WABetaInfo (@WABetaInfo) April 29, 2017
New App
Another app for small, medium businesses
Reports have been doing rounds for some time now that WhatsApp is going to start generating revenue in 2017 through business services. WABetaInfo also has revealed WhatsApp is working on developing a second app primarily for enabling businesses to communicate with their consumers via the new app. The new app would reportedly be available on iOS, Android, and Windows 10 Mobile operating systems.
Monetization Plans
WhatsApp to also deploy payments technologies for monetization purposes
WhatsApp is not very public about its monetization plans; the launch date of the new business app is yet to be confirmed. The company has also been looking for professionals to help its monetization efforts and has recently posted business products-related job openings. WhatsApp is also working on the UPI payments option feature in India, expected to be launched by 2017-end.
Information
Businesses to be verified by WhatsApp
The new app would help companies target their consumers much more effectively. While creating business accounts, WhatsApp will verify the details of the organizations. WhatsApp will not allow changing the names of such accounts. The business will have PSA (public service announcement) accounts.