This week, WhatsApp focused on three key areas: developing its AI ecosystem; preparing for the launch of the WhatsApp Plus premium subscription, including a waitlist, expanded limits, and new ringtones; and expanding the reach of status messages, which can now be viewed from unverified numbers. The search interface on iOS has also been updated.
Table of Contents
AI-powered Chat History Organizer
WhatsApp is introducing a feature that allows users to organize their chat history using built-in artificial intelligence.
How it will work
Each new conversation with the messenger’s built-in artificial intelligence is now created as a separate thread. A section will appear in the chat history listing all conversations, each with a title (generated automatically, but user-defined), creation date, and quick navigation options. AI memory (context), when enabled, remains shared across all conversations.
Why it’s useful
Allows you to structure your AI-powered conversations—easily return to a specific topic without losing the context of other queries. Convenient for work, study, and long-term projects.
Status
This feature is available to some beta testers on Android. Rollout will continue in the coming weeks.
Statuses from Unverified Numbers
WhatsApp is introducing a feature that allows you to share status updates from unsaved phone numbers.
How it will work
If you’ve recently interacted with someone (message or phone call), they will be able to include you in their status updates, even if their number isn’t saved in your address book. In the status view, these updates will display their name and number followed by the ~ (tilde) symbol. You can hide or report these status updates. They will automatically stop showing if there hasn’t been any interaction in a while.
Why it’s useful
Expands the reach of status updates for natural communication. Paving the way for a nickname system where phone numbers won’t be required for sharing.
Status
This feature is available to a limited number of users in certain countries. It will gradually be rolled out to more users.
Waiting list for WhatsApp Plus
WhatsApp is rolling out a feature that allows users to join a waitlist for a premium plan.
How it will work
A banner has been added to the settings or sticker keyboard allowing you to sign up for a notification about the launch of WhatsApp Plus, a paid premium subscription. Signing up for the waitlist doesn’t obligate you to purchase; you’ll simply be notified when a plan becomes available.
Why it’s useful
So that users can be the first to learn about the release of paid features and not miss out on the opportunity to test new features.
Status
This feature is currently available to some beta testers on Android. Geographical expansion is planned in the coming weeks.
Up to 20 pinned chats with a Premium account
WhatsApp is working on a premium feature that will allow users to pin up to 20 chats.
How it will work
With a WhatsApp Plus subscription, the pinned chat limit will be expanded from the current 3 to 20. All pinned conversations will appear at the top of the chat list.
Why it’s useful
For highly active users—work, school, or many groups. Saves time searching for important conversations.
Status
This feature is in development for Android. It will be released with the launch of WhatsApp Plus.
New ringtones for calls with a Premium account
WhatsApp is working on a premium feature that will offer a collection of new ringtones.
How it will work
WhatsApp Plus subscribers will have access to a separate section with 10 exclusive ringtones. You can listen to them directly in the app without going into system settings. Ringtones are for calls only, not notifications.
Why it’s useful
Personalization of calls, the ability to distinguish WhatsApp notifications from other apps.
Status
This feature is in development for Android. The ringtone list may change before release.
Horizontal filters and history in the updated search
WhatsApp is rolling out a feature that adds updated filters and recent searches to the “Chats” tab.
How it will work
The search interface in the “Chats” tab has been updated to match the new media gallery style. Filters are now arranged horizontally. A “Recent Searches” block has been added to the top of the search bar, displaying contacts and groups you’ve searched for previously. Data is stored locally only.
Why it’s useful
Speeds up navigation and re-access to frequently searched chats. The modern design unifies the interface with the media gallery.
Status
This feature is available to some beta testers on iOS. Coming soon to the stable version.
Conclusion
WhatsApp is actively preparing for the launch of a paid subscription, adding new exclusive features: more pinned chats, ringtones, and customization. At the same time, AI tools are being improved and status usage scenarios are expanding—they can now reach a wider audience based on recent interactions.
At GREEN-API, we’re keeping an eye on the news and will keep you informed about all significant updates. We’re also constantly working on introducing new features to our service to make your experience more convenient. Follow our blog to stay up-to-date on new and useful features in WhatsApp!