What did we do before WhatsApp group chats? Well, tbh we were probs all a lot more productive. Sure, the endless groups made for work chats and brunches can clog your feed but the one with your besties and family? They are a must.

Finally, Meta has revealed a load of new updates for group chats and ngl they are well overdue.

So, what’s new? And are they legit helpful?

Via CanvaPro

‘Online’ indicator in group chats

The 4-1-1: To help you know if people are around to chat, you can now see how many people are ‘Online’ in real-time, right under the group name.

Slay or nay? Meh, this feature is ok but not really needed. Plus, it adds drama to the whole being expected to reply instantly and that’s toxic af.

Highlight notifications in groups

Need an easy way to prioritise your group chat notifications? Use the new ‘Notify for’ setting and select ‘Highlights’ to limit notifications for @mentions, replies, and messages from saved contacts or ‘All’ to receive all notifications

Slay or nay? Sneaky, but we like it. This new feature lets you go incognito without exiting the gc.

Events updates

In addition to creating events in groups, you can now create an event in a 1:1 conversation. Meta has also added the ability to RSVP as ‘maybe,’ invite a plus one, add an end date and time for longer events, and pin the event in a chat.

Slay or nay? AT LAST! Being able to lock in a meet has never been easier and we are loving the extra options of being able to add an end date and say ‘maybe’.

Tappable reactions

Sometimes you just want to +1 to what someone else said. Now, you can quickly view everyone else’s reactions and tap the one you want to send.

Slay or nay? Not fussed by this feature but don’t hate it either.

Document scanning on iPhone

Scan and send documents directly from WhatsApp on iPhone. Simply select ‘Scan document’ from the attachment tray and follow the steps to scan, crop, and save the document. 

Slay or nay? Anything that makes life admin easier gets our vote. 10/10.

Default App for iPhone

With the latest iOS update, you can now also set WhatsApp as your default messaging and calling app on your iPhone. To make the switch, simply go to Settings > Default Apps and select WhatsApp.  

Slay or nay? Who uses iMessage anymore? Erm, no one. So this makes total sense.

Click here to read: The new Tired Face emoji is a wake up call for us to live life smarter.