WhatsApp is adding a slew of new features for its Android users, and has been in the process of rapidly updating its software versions during the past few days. The changes allow people to manage their conversations better and go for options such as low data consumption during calls.
One of the highlights of the WhatsApp update is a new notifications box on the details page of a person or group. A mute setting lets you silence one-on-one conversations for the first time, that choice only having been available for group chats till now. So you currently have the ability to ignore someone for 8 hours, 1 week or a year.
There’s a custom notifications setting on the table too, which can be utilized to add some individual flair to your WhatsApp talks. Use it to choose how long your vibrations are, pick a message tone or call ringtone for a specific person, and even change your light and popup settings.
If you’re the type of person who needs a reminder to go back to a conversation later on, this new WhatsApp upgrade brings with it the option to mark a chat as unread. Just click and hold on a chat and the mark as unread choice will come up. A green dot will appear next to the person’s name.
In good news for users of WhatsApp voice calling (as long as the DoT panel’s report on net neutrality isn’t approved), the app now has a low data usage choice for calls; handy in situations when you’re stuck on a slow network. According to Android Police, a Google Drive backup option has been added as well.
Also Read: WhatsApp for Web update adds ability to manage chats, groups and profile photo
You can use the service to save your complete WhatsApp chat history including conversations, photos and videos. This would allow you to restore your information in any phone you have. Lastly, ethnically diverse emojis are available in Android now, a feature which has been seen in the web and iOS versions for some time.
WhatsApp version 2.12.197 for Android is rolling out gradually and may take some time to reach the Google Play Store. If you want to check it out now, you can download the APK here.