WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.10.17: what's new?
WhatsApp is rolling out a new update through the Google Play Beta Program, bringing the version up to 2.24.10.17.
What's new in this update? WhatsApp is working on a category feature for the channels directory, and it will be available in a future update!
| Common questions | Answers |
|---|---|
| Name of the feature? | Channel category |
| Status? | Under development |
| Availability? | WhatsApp is working on bringing a category feature for the channels directory to a future update of the app. |
| I've installed this update but I don't have this feature. Why? | This feature is under development so it's not ready for beta testers, but it is possible to discover a preview in this article. |
| Special thanks: | Sc and ShuhaibNC, for collaborating, testing, and reporting. |
| Previous news? | WhatsApp beta for iOS 24.9.10.74: what’s new? WhatsApp is rolling out a feature to offer new sticker creation shortcuts! |
CHANNEL CATEGORY
In the article about the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.8.7 update, we announced that WhatsApp was working on a feature to allow users to explore more similar channels. Through this enhancement, users will have a more enhanced experience while browsing existing channels, as the suggestions will guide them toward new content that resonates with the channels they already follow. It appears that WhatsApp is now committed to adding other features to offer users the ability to explore more channels by expanding the capabilities of the channels directory. Thanks to the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.10.17 update, which is available on the Google Play Store, we discovered that WhatsApp is working on a category feature for the channels directory!
As you can see from the attached screenshot, WhatsApp is testing a revamped channels directory, aimed at offering users the ability to explore channels by category, set for release in a future update of the app. Right now, WhatsApp is exploring seven categories such as Business, Entertainment, Lifestyle, News and Information, Organizations, People, and Sports. This process will be automatic, so users don't have to manually select the best category for their channels when the feature is available. This ensures that when the revamped directory is released, channels will already be sorted into the correct categories. This feature will also makes it easier for users to find the content they’re interested in by selecting the category that best matches their preferences.
In our opinion, the introduction of categories will bring an enhanced experience to the channels directory. This will improve discovery process, allowing users to quickly locate channels that better match their interests. With channels automatically organized into relevant categories, users will be able to save time and effort when searching for new content. We believe that this categorized approach will also reduce the need for extensive scrolling and encourages users to explore beyond their usual interests.
A category feature for the channels directory is under development and it will be available in a future update of the app. We will share another article once we have additional information about this feature.
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