This week, WhatsApp unveiled a number of significant updates, from a radical overhaul of the status interface and the introduction of guest chats to official Garmin support and automatic message translation. Parental controls and survey tools are also continuing to evolve.
Table of Contents
Statuses at the Top of the Chats List
WhatsApp is working on a new feature that will allow users to view status updates directly at the top of the Chats tab.
How it will work
The top bar of the Chats tab will display the avatars of up to three contacts who have recently posted a status. As you scroll down the list, a horizontal row appears above the chats with all contact statuses (except hidden ones). Statuses from hidden contacts are available in a separate “Hidden” section.
Why is this necessary
This allows you to view statuses without leaving the Chats tab. It’s convenient for quickly reviewing new posts, especially in active conversations.
Status
This feature is in early development for Android. A release is not yet guaranteed, and changes are possible.
Guest Chats for Chatting Without an Account
In guest chats, users can create invitation links to start chatting with people who don’t have a WhatsApp account.
How it will work
A WhatsApp user can create an invitation link for someone without an account. The recipient opens the link in a browser (on a computer or phone), selects “Continue as Guest,” and enters their name. The chat opens in the WhatsApp Web interface. The guest sees the inviter’s number and can send text messages (no media, stickers, or calls). The chat is deleted after 10 days of inactivity. Messages are protected by end-to-end encryption.
Why is this necessary
This simplifies the initial experience with the platform and allows communication with people who don’t yet have an account. It can encourage new users to register.
Status
This feature is available to a limited number of beta testers on Android and iOS. It will gradually become available to more users.
New profile tab with cover photo
WhatsApp is updating its iOS app interface with a new “Profile” tab.
How it will work
A new “You” tab (previously called “Settings”) has been added to the bottom navigation of the iOS version. This tab displays a profile icon, allowing you to quickly identify the active account (useful for multiple accounts). A profile cover image has been added to the top of the Settings page (currently a default one, not changeable).
Why is this necessary
This simplifies navigation when using multiple accounts. The cover image makes the profile more visually appealing, preparing the interface for future customization.
Status
The update is available for WhatsApp for iOS users from the App Store. The name and cover image changes are being rolled out gradually.
Official Garmin Support
WhatsApp has released a dedicated app for Garmin smartwatches, making it easier for users to stay in touch.
How it will work
The WhatsApp app is now available in the Garmin Connect IQ™ Store. Once installed and paired with a phone, users can read notifications, view the last 10 chats, respond with quick replies, emoji, or the Garmin keyboard, and decline incoming calls. Supported devices include the Enduro™ 3, fēnix® 8, Forerunner® 570, Venu® 4, and others. A stable Bluetooth connection and WhatsApp version 2.26.70 or later are required.
Why is this necessary
This feature provides convenience for active users (sports, hiking), allowing them to stay connected without having to reach for their phone. Privacy is maintained thanks to end-to-end encryption.
Status
Support is available to owners of compatible Garmin devices after installing the appropriate app.
Poll Editing
WhatsApp is developing a feature that will allow users to edit their polls in chats and groups in the future.
How it will work
The creator of a poll will be able to edit its title after publishing. An edited poll will be marked as “edited.” Answer options cannot be changed to avoid tainting the votes already received.
Why is this necessary
This allows you to correct typos or clarify the wording of a question without deleting and recreating the poll. Participants don’t lose their votes, and the conversation is not interrupted.
Status
This feature is in development for Android. Planned for beta testing.
Automatic Message Translation
WhatsApp is working on a feature that will automatically translate messages in chats and groups in the future.
How it will work
An automatic translation option will appear in the chat settings. The user selects the language to translate from and to. After downloading the language packs, all incoming messages in the selected language will be automatically translated. The original message will remain accessible via the context menu. 21 languages are available, but this depends on the iOS version. The feature works in private and group chats (as long as everyone is writing in the same language).
Why is this necessary
This simplifies communication with people who speak a different language. Translation is performed on the device, without sending data to servers, preserving end-to-end encryption.
Status
This feature is in development for iOS. A release is expected in a future update.
Conclusion
WhatsApp is actively expanding its communication options: guest chats open the platform to new users, automatic translation removes language barriers, and Garmin support makes the messenger even more mobile-friendly. Visual improvements and polling tools continue to make the interface more user-friendly and modern.
At GREEN-API, we’re keeping an eye on the news and will keep you informed about all the significant updates. We’re also constantly working to introduce new features to our service to make your experience even more convenient. Follow our blog to stay up-to-date on new and useful features in WhatsApp!