WhatsApp has been implementing a number of updates to Status and video calls with the idea of further improving the experience for users. New features include Status likes, private mentions, and some effects on video calls to give users more options for expression and interaction with others. These are meant to make communication easier by offering more private, creative ways to reach other people.
WhatsApp Status: More ways to connect and share
The Status feature is one of the major updates. WhatsApp has introduced a status likes feature, where users can appreciate the contact’s status with a mere tap and, with an option for private acknowledgement. Unlike public reactions or comment counters, the like is only visible to the individual who posted the status, making the interaction more discreet and personalized. Such a subtle approach toward engagement should motivate even more spontaneous connections without the added pressure of statistics on display.
The platform is also introducing private mentions within Status. Here it allows users to mention specified contacts privately within their status updates. If a person is mentioned, he receives a notification; however, the mention goes invisible to other people watching the Status. Thus, it provides more control over who will see what, along with allowing the mentioned contacts to reshare the Status with their audience if they wish to. The ability to share content privately in such a way makes Status a much more flexible tool for personal communication.
These Status updates are a part of the larger rollout globally and are likely to go live soon. WhatsApp also said that more enhancements will come to the Status and Updates tabs in the near future, although details on those features haven’t been confirmed yet.
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Video calls on WhatsApp get a makeover with filters and backgrounds
In addition to what it is changing in Status, WhatsApp is also improving video calls. The company has included filters and backgrounds in the feature. These new improvements enable users to be more in control over how they look during video calls-from personal to professional usages.
Filters allow users to adjust the visual tone of their video feed, offering different kinds of styles-from warm tones and vintage to more abstract prism light; that way, there is a possibility of having the filter according to the mood or the general topic of discussion. Therefore, it makes the video call experience more interesting and fitting.
The addition of video call backgrounds is a new feature on WhatsApp that enables users to change their backgrounds with some inbuilt options. Thus, it can be as cozy as a living room background or a complete outback like a forest or beach, according to the environment or preference of the user. It is specifically useful for a closed private environment during video calls or a more polished appearance while working from home.
Additional features to improve video quality
WhatsApp is also releasing two new features to improve video quality. Touch Up helps in making a person look more visually appealing in a subtle and natural way, while Low Light uses self-adjusting brightness to automatically keep the video calls clear and adequately illuminated even when lighting conditions are not ideal.
These video call effects may be accessed during a 1:1 or group call by tapping on the effects icon at the top of the screen. Like the Status updates, these video call features are going to roll out to all users globally over the coming weeks.
Stay tuned for when WhatsApp rolls out these features globally. We would like to know what you have to say after you have tried them out.