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Forget about missed calls with this new feature in WhatsApp#

February 12, 2026

New features in WA

Greetings to everyone following WhatsApp! Last week, the messenger developers introduced several important improvements aimed at enhancing security, improving the interface, and expanding content management functionality. Read on to learn about the key innovations coming in the upcoming updates.

Contents#

Profiles and Notifications for Channel Administrators#

WhatsApp is rolling out a feature that allows channel administrators to manage notifications and display their own profile.

How it works#

Administrators can separately control notifications about subscriber activity (new followers, reactions) and other administrators (posts, reactions from colleagues). The new "Show admin profile" option allows you to display your name and photo next to posts. This data is taken from a separate channel profile, ensuring the privacy of personal information.

Why is this needed#

Notification management will help administrators avoid being overwhelmed by alerts. Personal profiles add transparency—subscribers can see who is behind the content, increasing trust and recognition.

Status#

Features are currently in development and testing. Planned for release in future updates.

Voice and Video Messages for Missed Calls#

WhatsApp is adding a feature that lets you leave voice and video messages directly for missed calls.

How it works#

When a call is missed, a recording button appears on the screen. The caller can immediately record a short voice or video message, which is sent to the recipient along with a missed call notification. Emoji reactions have been added to group chats during voice calls, and the current speaker is highlighted in video calls.

Why is this needed#

This is a convenient alternative to traditional voicemail. The message remains in the context of the conversation, making it easier to follow the conversation and making communication more expressive.

Status#

The feature is already available and is gradually rolling out to all users on iOS, Android, and WhatsApp Desktop.

Confetti Effects and New Year's Stickers#

WhatsApp is adding holiday visual effects and special stickers for 2026.

How it works#

Reacting with holiday emojis will trigger a confetti animation. WhatsApp has released a set of Lottie stickers for the New Year, which work in all chats, channels, and statuses. For creating New Year's statuses, a "2026" option has been added to the Layout section for collages with themed layouts.

Why is this needed#

Holiday effects and stickers make communication more expressive and add joy to your messages. They help you beautifully curate collections of moments from the past year.

Status#

Holiday effects are available for a limited time during the holiday season. New Year's stickers and layouts are gradually rolling out to all users.

Custom Member Tags in Groups#

WhatsApp is rolling out a feature that allows each member to add a short text tag indicating their role.

How it works#

Each group member can create their own tag, which will appear next to their name in chats and the participant list. The tag can be added in the group information without admin approval. Tags are specific to the group—one person can have different tags in different chats.

Why is this needed#

This helps quickly understand who is responsible for what. By seeing a person's role next to their message, other members immediately know who to contact. This simplifies coordination and makes the group more organized.

Status#

The feature is being rolled out widely on iOS and is available to beta testers. Availability will gradually expand.

Channel Invitations#

WhatsApp is adding a tool for administrators to attract new subscribers with direct invitations.

How it works#

Administrators can send channel invitations to people in their contact list. WhatsApp automatically sends a message with a button that opens the channel and allows them to subscribe. This is a more personal way to grow than sharing links or passive discovery.

Why is this needed#

An invitation from a friend sounds more reliable and generates more interest. It helps new channels quickly build a base of active subscribers.

Status#

The feature is available to a limited group of beta testers on Android and is gradually expanding.

Interactive Quizzes in Channels#

WhatsApp is adding a new tool: creating and publishing interactive quizzes in channels.

How it works#

A "Quiz" option is now available in the channel attachment menu. Administrators can add a question, multiple-choice answers with text and images, and select the correct answer. A confetti animation appears when the answer is correct. Administrators can see answer statistics and participant information.

Why is this needed#

This will make channels more interactive and entertaining. Furthermore, this format encourages active participation from subscribers, helping administrators understand what content resonates with their audience.

Status#

The feature is available to some beta testers on Android and will be rolled out in future updates.

Conclusion#

Last week, WhatsApp focused on developing tools for channel administrators and improving communication interactivity. From notification management to New Year's effects and powerful tools for channel growth, developers are creating an increasingly versatile platform.

At GREEN-API, we monitor all WhatsApp updates to provide you with the latest news and solutions for automating your business processes. Stay tuned to stay up-to-date with all the latest developments!