WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.17.21: what's new?
WhatsApp has released a new Android update through the Google Play Beta Program, bringing the version up to 2.25.17.21.
What's new in this update? WhatsApp is working on an optional feature to get notifications for recommended channels, and it will be available in a future update!
| Common questions | Answers |
|---|---|
| Name of the feature? | Notifications for recommended channels |
| Status? | Under development |
| Availability? | WhatsApp is currently developing an optional feature to get notifications for recommended channels, which is expected to be released in a future update. |
| I've installed the update, but this feature isn't available. Why? | This feature is currently in development and not yet available for beta testing. In the meantime, you can read this article for a sneak peek. |
| Previous news? | WhatsApp beta for iOS 25.16.10.72: what's new? WhatsApp is working on a feature to react to messages and media using stickers! |
RECOMMENDED CHANNEL NOTIFICATIONS
In the article about the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.10.20 update, we announced that a feature to categorize channels within the official directory was available. This feature introduced a new categorization system that organizes channels into seven predefined categories, including Business, Entertainment, Lifestyle, News and Information, Organizations, People, and Sports. This functionality makes it easier for users to explore and discover content based on their interests. The revamped directory offers a cleaner and more intuitive layout and a streamlined browsing experience, allowing users to navigate by category or quickly search for new channels within their preferred topics. It seems that WhatsApp is committed to providing users with additional tools to help them find content that is most relevant to their interests. Following the release of the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.17.21 update, which is available on the Google Play Store, we discovered that WhatsApp is working on an optional feature to get notifications for recommended channels!
As you can see from the attached screenshot, WhatsApp is exploring the implementation of a feature that will notify users about channels that might be of particular interest to them, scheduled for release in a future update. This includes personalized recommendations based on the channels the user already follows on their account. For example, if a user follows several channels categorized under Sports, the system may suggest similar sports-related channels that may align with that user's preferences. Additionally, if a user follows channels from different categories that all focus on a specific topic, such as technology or travel, they may receive a notification recommending another channel discussing the same topic, even if it belongs to a different category. This approach ensures that recommendations are tailored to users' unique patterns of interest and engagement.
The recommendation system is designed to enhance content discovery by leveraging the channels that users already follow to generate personalized suggestions. This may help users connect with a broader range of channels that align with their specific passions, interests, and informational needs. In addition, this will encourage users to explore new channels they might not have found on their own since the recommendations are based on their existing interests and following patterns, making the suggestions highly relevant and personalized. Through this approach, WhatsApp aims to increase user engagement and ensure that users can easily stay informed about the topics they care about most from new channels.
It's important to note that this feature will be entirely optional. Users who are not interested in channels, or who prefer not to receive recommendations, will have the choice to opt out of these notifications. To ensure users maintain persistent control over their notification preferences, WhatsApp will introduce a dedicated toggle in the notification screen from the app settings. This toggle will allow users to easily enable or disable notifications related to suggested channels, giving them the flexibility to personalize their experience as they see fit.
An optional feature to get notifications for recommended channels is under development and it will be available in a future update. We will keep you updated with an additional article as soon as we have more details to share about this feature.
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