WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.4.17: what's new?
WhatsApp is rolling out a new update through the Google Play Beta Program, bringing the version up to 2.24.4.17.
What's new in this update? WhatsApp is rolling out a feature to disable reactions in channels, and it's available to some beta testers!
| Common questions | Answers |
|---|---|
| Name of the feature? | Disable channel reactions |
| Status? | Rolling out |
| Compatibility? | WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.4.17 is marked as a compatible update, but some beta testers may be able to experiment with the same feature by installing certain previous updates. |
| I've installed this update but I don't have this feature. Why? | This feature is available to some beta testers, and it is rolling out to more users over the coming days. |
| Thanks: | AnonymousWP, for testing and reporting. |
| Previous news? | WhatsApp for iOS 24.3.76: what’s new? WhatsApp is releasing a fix to address a crash upon opening the iOS app! |
DISABLE CHANNEL REACTIONS
In the article about the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.15.18 update, we revealed that WhatsApp was working on a feature to react to channel updates. Additionally, we disclosed that users would have the option to disable channel reactions, although it was not yet available at the initial rollout of this feature. After installing the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.4.17 update, which is available on the Google Play Store, we discovered that WhatsApp is rolling out the feature to disable channel reactions!
As you can see in this screenshot, an option to disable channel reactions is now available within the channel settings. It's worth noting that reactions are enabled by default for all channels but, thanks to the latest updates, channel owners now have the autonomy to disable reactions at their discretion. By disabling channel reactions, channel followers will no longer be able to express their reactions to updates, ensuring a more focused communication experience for both channel owners and followers. This capability also allows channel owners to curate their channels without the potential distractions or clutter caused by reactions, ensuring that the shared content always remains the focal point of discussion.
In our opinion, disabling channel reactions may be useful in certain situations. Reactions can sometimes be misrepresented by sharing certain topics in channels, leading to misunderstandings when viewing such updates. Channel owners may consider disabling reactions to mitigate the risk of misinterpretation as a proactive approach, ensuring that the conveyed messages receive the full attention they deserve. By exercising control over the types of interactions allowed within their channels, we believe that channel owners can maintain clarity and control over the updates they share, reducing the misrepresentation of their content.
The feature to disable reactions in channels is available to some beta testers that 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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