WhatsApp Update Adds AI Chatbots, Photo Stickers, and More

WhatsApp has rolled out several new features this January, bringing improvements to messaging, AI integration, and user experience.

Here’s a breakdown of everything new added to WhatsApp in the first month of 2025.

Stable WhatsApp Features (Available to All Users)

1. AI Studio in WhatsApp (Android & iPhone)

WhatsApp now includes AI Studio, allowing users to chat with AI-powered personalities. These AI bots can represent different cultures, pop-culture icons, or even fictional characters.

2. Built-in Dial Pad (iPhone)

iPhone users can now dial numbers directly from the Calls tab without saving them first. Tap the plus (+) icon, select Call a number, and enter the contact.

3. Double Tap to React (Android & iPhone)

Instead of holding down a message to react, users can now double-tap a text, image, or voice message to open the emoji reaction menu.

4. Photo Stickers & Sticker Pack Links (Android & iPhone)

Users can now create stickers from their own photos. WhatsApp automatically removes the background, making it easy to generate custom stickers. Additionally, sticker pack links can now be shared with friends.

5. Background Effects for Photos (Android & iPhone)

Filters and effects, previously available for status updates and calls, can now be applied to regular photos sent in chats.

6. Add Message Before Forwarding (Android)

When forwarding messages, users can now add their own text before sending, providing more context.

Upcoming WhatsApp Features (Beta Testing)

7. Dedicated AI Tab (Android)

WhatsApp is testing a new AI tab that will replace the Communities section, providing a single place for AI-powered interactions.

8. Colorful Icons for Chats and Groups (Android & iPhone)

Users without profile pictures will see colorful icons with their initials, making chats easier to identify.

9. Connect WhatsApp to Meta Accounts Center (Android & iPhone)

A new option allows users to link WhatsApp to Meta’s Accounts Center, enabling cross-posting of status updates between WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram.

10. Share Music in Status Updates (Android & iPhone)

WhatsApp is testing a feature that lets users add background music to their status updates, similar to Instagram’s music stickers.

11. Manage Chat Animations (Android & iPhone)

Users will soon have the option to disable animations for GIFs, stickers, and emojis.

12. Unread Message Counter for Filters (Android)

Message filters will now display the number of unread messages in each category.

13. Events in Regular Chats (Android)

WhatsApp is expanding its event creation feature to individual chats, allowing users to set up reminders for personal conversations.

14. Photos in Polls (Android)

Users will be able to add images as options in polls, making them more visually engaging.

These updates bring new ways to interact, personalize conversations, and enhance the user experience. Make sure to update your app to access the latest features.