From animated stickers to QR codes, here’s what’s new in WhatsApp

WhatsApp is bringing animated stickers and more to the table.

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

We’ve known for a while now that WhatsApp was working on a couple of features like the ability to add someone via a QR code. Now, the company has made it official while also announcing a variety of other features and tweaks.

The QR code feature gives each user their own unique code, and others can scan this code from within WhatsApp to add you as a contact. Fortunately, you can also reset your code if you’re worried about privacy (such as your previous QR code getting posted online).

The second major feature announced by WhatsApp this week is animated stickers functionality (first spotted by WABetaInfo last month). The Facebook-owned company says these are more expressive than static stickers, as you’d expect.

WhatsApp's new features announced in July 2020, including animated stickers.

WhatsApp has also focused on improved group video calls, as it now lets you press and hold on a participant to maximize their video. This feature is restricted to group video calls of eight or fewer people. Another video call tweak is a new video chat shortcut button in groups of up to eight people, enabling the ability to start a video call with one tap.

Finally, the company is also bringing two key features to non-smartphone platforms, as it brings dark mode to WhatsApp Web and Desktop and WhatsApp Status to KaiOS users.

Not seeing these features yet? That’s okay, as WhatsApp confirmed that they’ll be rolling out over the next few weeks.

From animated stickers to QR code functionality, we’re glad to see these features come to WhatsApp. What would you like to see next from the team though? Let us know in the comments! Otherwise, you can check out more app coverage via the list below.

Share
This entry was posted in Apps, Messaging Apps, News, WhatsApp. Bookmark the permalink.