WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.25.22: what's new?

WhatsApp is rolling out a new update through the Google Play Beta Program, bringing the version up to 2.24.25.22.
What's new in this update? WhatsApp is rolling out a feature to bring new voice group chat actions, and it's available to some beta testers!

In the article about the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.24.20 update, we announced that WhatsApp was rolling out voice chats for large groups. A voice chat is a group call feature that allows participants to join and speak without notifying others through ringing. Instead, it sends a silent push notification to group members, making it a more discreet and convenient way to initiate conversations. It appears that WhatsApp is publicly testing new enhancements for voice group chats, as some beta testers noticed a new entry point in their groups. Thanks to the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.25.22 update, which is available on the Google Play Store, we discovered that WhatsApp is rolling out a feature to bring new voice group chat actions!

As you can see from the attached screenshot, some beta testers can explore a new feature to quickly start a voice chat within their groups. Previously, users need to open the group chat info screen or select the action from the top app bar to place a voice chat. With this update, WhatsApp introduces a floating action button positioned just above the message send button, enhancing the visibility of the feature and ensuring that all group members are aware of it.

A limited number of beta testers might also be able to trigger the start of a voice chat by scrolling up the conversation within a group. When the user completes the gesture, the voice chat will automatically begin, enhancing the process even further. This new gesture-based approach provides a quick and intuitive alternative for initiating voice chats, as it makes it easier for users to talk live. In addition, some users who install the latest stable version of WhatsApp may also experience these improvements, as the feature is gradually rolling out beyond beta testers. This wider availability ensures more users can explore the benefits of enhanced voice chats in their group conversations.

It is important to mention that WhatsApp is also extending the availability of voice chats to more groups. While initially targeted at larger groups than 32 members, the feature can now be accessed even in smaller groups, including those with just two participants. This ensures that users can enjoy the convenience of silent voice chats regardless of the group size, though there are still some limitations for larger groups. Users will still have the option to notify all group members once a voice chat has been initiated, allowing everyone to join if they wish. However, if no one accesses the voice chat within 60 minutes, it will automatically end, ensuring it does not remain active unnecessarily. This automatic termination feature still helps to conserve resources and maintains a tidy group chat interface while still offering flexibility for users to start a new voice chat anytime.

A feature to bring new voice group chat actions is available to some beta testers who install the latest updates of WhatsApp beta for Android from the Google Play Store, and it is rolling out to even more people over the coming days.

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