WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.17.43: what's new?

WhatsApp has released a new Android update through the Google Play Beta Program, bringing the version up to 2.25.17.43.
What's new in this update? WhatsApp is rolling out a feature to manage notifications for recommended channels, and it's available to some beta testers!

In the article about the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.17.21 update, we announced that an optional feature to get notifications for recommended channels was under development. This feature is designed to enhance content discovery by providing users with personalized channel suggestions based on their current following patterns and interests. For example, if users follow several channels with related category, the system may recommend other channels that reflect similar interests and send them relevant notifications. It appears that WhatsApp is now testing this feature with the public, as some beta testers have reported seeing the new option to receive recommended channel notifications. Following the release of the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.17.43 update, which is available on the Google Play Store, we discovered that WhatsApp is rolling out a feature to manage notifications for recommended channels!

As you can see from the attached screenshot, some beta testers can explore a new feature that allows them to manage notifications for recommended channels directly from the notification settings of the app. These recommended channels are selected based on each user's individual interests by analyzing the channels a user already follows. If a user follows multiple channels within a specific category, WhatsApp is more likely to recommend additional channels from the same category. This approach increases the chances that the user will find the suggested content engaging and aligned with their preferences.

In addition to category-based analysis, other factors may be taken into account when generating recommendations. However, all these criteria are strictly based on the level of user involvement with channels, such as interactions and engagement. It's worth noting that a recommendation system for channels has existed within the app for some time, helping users discover content tailored to their interests directly from the Updates tab. The introduction of a notification system now actively alerts users about the most relevant recommended channels, making it easier for them to find and follow those suggestions.

When WhatsApp identifies a channel that could be of interest, it sends a notification directly to the user to inform them about the recommendation. This notification allows users to view and follow the suggested channel, allowing them to decide whether or not they want to engage with it. It's important to highlight that this feature is entirely optional, as users can manage the option to get notifications for recommended channels from the app settings at any time.

A feature to manage notifications for recommended channels 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.

Stay up-to-date on WhatsApp news by following WABetaInfo on X. You can also discover other new features for WhatsApp beta for Android, iOS, Web/Desktop, and Windows.

Do you like this news? Please, let us know on X: we love hearing your feedback! If you're curious to see where you can find WABetaInfo, there is a dedicated page where you can discover our services.
In addition, we have set up a Discord Server where you can chat with other people, get help and advice, and stay up to date with the latest announcements from WABetaInfo.