This week, WhatsApp continued to develop its AI tools, expand device support, and improve the user experience. Key new features include a summary for multiple unread chats, a native app for CarPlay, an online contact list, new Unicode 17.0 emoji, and the long-awaited ability to reply to channel updates.
Table of Contents
Summaries for Multiple Unread Chats
WhatsApp is developing a feature that will allow users to create private, AI-powered summaries of multiple unread chats simultaneously.
How it will work
A “Get Summaries” option will appear in the “Unread Chats” filter. When selected, WhatsApp will send the latest messages from the selected conversations to its Private Processing system, which will generate a summary in a secure environment. WhatsApp clarifies that it does not have access to the original messages or the generated summaries. This feature requires Private Processing to be enabled in settings.
Why is this necessary
This feature allows users to quickly understand the gist of several active chats (especially group chats) without reading each message individually, saving time and helping them stay on track.
Status
This feature is in development for Android. A release is expected in a future update.
WhatsApp App for CarPlay
WhatsApp is bringing its messaging app to CarPlay with a native interface designed for easy use while driving.
How it will work
The iOS beta version now includes a dedicated app for CarPlay. The interface includes three tabs:
- A list of chats for the last 20-25 days, showing pinned and muted conversations, a filter for unread messages, and a “New Message” button.
- Call history for incoming, outgoing, and missed calls with the option to call back.
- Favorite contacts for quick access. When selecting a contact, you can send a message or start a call. Reading the full chat history is not available for safety reasons while driving.
Why is this necessary
Previously, WhatsApp on CarPlay relied solely on Siri with voice-activated responses. The new app provides visual control—a list of chats, calls, and favorites—without distracting the driver with unnecessary details.
Status
The app is available to iOS beta testers. After testing, it will be available in the App Store for all users.
Online Contacts List
WhatsApp is developing a feature that will allow users to see who is currently online.
How it will work
A section will appear in the app settings (or elsewhere—the location is still being determined) that will display a list of contacts who are currently online. You can sort by name or online status. Contacts who have hidden their “online” or “last seen” status will not be displayed. In this section, WhatsApp will also recommend adding unknown contacts with whom you frequently communicate to your address book.
Why is this necessary
This feature allows you to instantly see which contacts are available to chat without opening each chat individually, and speeds up conversation initiation.
Status
This feature is in development for Android. A release is planned for a future update.
New Unicode 17.0 Emoji
WhatsApp on Android has added support for the new Unicode 17.0 emoji.
How it will work
The built-in WhatsApp keyboard has been updated with eight new emoji from the Unicode 17.0 standard: distorted face, ballet slippers, killer whale, Bigfoot, landslide, battle cloud, trombone, and treasure chest.
Why is this necessary
This allows for more precise expression of emotions and themes that were previously difficult to convey. The update is synchronized with the release of iOS 26.4, so emoji display correctly on all supported devices.
Status
This feature is available to some Android beta testers. It will gradually be available to all users.
Replies to Channel Updates
WhatsApp is rolling out the ability to reply to channel messages for administrators on iOS.
How it will work
Channel administrators can now reply to their own posts. When you reply, WhatsApp automatically creates a link to the original update, so subscribers can easily access it for context. Replies can be left by tapping and holding a message or swiping right. If you reply to an update older than 30 days, the link may not be available to subscribers who joined later.
Why is this necessary
This allows you to add clarifications, corrections, or additional information to existing posts while maintaining a link to the original, and also simplifies navigation within channel discussions.
Status
This feature is available to some iOS beta testers and some users of the stable version from the App Store.
Conclusion
WhatsApp continues to introduce AI assistants, expands its device ecosystem with the release of an app for CarPlay, brings greater transparency to communications, adds fresh emoji, and finally implements in-channel replies—a feature that has been highly anticipated for almost two years.
At GREEN-API, we’re keeping an eye on the latest news and will keep you updated on any 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!