WhatsApp has introduced a range of new features designed to improve communication, collaboration, and user control across both group and personal chats. This update aims at enhancing video capabilities and which aim to make the messaging platform more interactive and user-friendly. Here are some of the best new features:  Also Read: WhatsApp’s New iPhone Update Brings A Liquid Glass Design, But Also A Strange Mute Bug

Online indicator in groups

Group members will now be able to see how many participants are currently online, with the count visible just below the group name. This is a small yet powerful change but gives the users a better sense of real-time engagement without needing to check individual activity. Also Read: Now Apply For Delhi Govt Documents In WhatsApp Chat, No Office Visit Needed

Smarter event planning

The new update bring the ability to create and manage events  Also Read: WhatsApp For iOS Gets A Fresh Liquid Glass Makeover Inspired By iOS 26

Users can now create and manage events within both group and individual chats. The update supports responses, the ability to invite a plus one, add end times for extended events, and even pin events for easy access. It’s a great feature for organising meetings and visual celebrations. 

Group notifications with ‘Highlights’

To reduce notification overload, WhatsApp has introduced a new ‘Notify for’ option in groups. This allows the users to choose to get alerts for ‘All Messages’ or just ‘Highlights’ like mentions and replies making the group chats less cluttered and more meaningful.

Tappable emojis

Responding to messages just got quicker and easier. The new update allows users to tap on the existing emoji reaction and send the same one, which makes conversations faster. 

Improved video call experience

WhatsApp has optimised video calling with better bandwidth detection and smarter routing for high-quality calls. Along with this improvement now iPhone user will also get pinch-to-zoom functionality, letting them zoom in during calls for a closer view.

Built-in document scanner

WhatsApp has added a document scanner in the attachment options to share documents like IDs, contracts, or receipts, without the need of a separate app. This makes sharing documents much faster and quicker. 

Channel video notes

Channel admins will now be able to post short video notes(up to 60 seconds) which helps in better community building and is ideal for quick updates or personal messages.