WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.18.25: what's new?
WhatsApp has released a new Android update through the Google Play Beta Program, bringing the version up to 2.25.18.25.
What's new in this update? WhatsApp is working on an AI-powered feature to filter chats that need a manual message, and it will be available in a future update!
| Common questions | Answers |
|---|---|
| Name of the feature? | AI-Handoff chat filter |
| Status? | Under development |
| Availability? | WhatsApp is currently developing an AI-powered feature to filter chats that need a manual message, 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 enhances chats, calls, and channels with animated emojis, video filters, photo polls, and more! |
AI-HANDOFF CHAT FILTER
In the article about the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.17.24 update, we announced that a feature to filter AI-powered chatbots was under development. This feature would have allowed users to easily filter their chat list to show only conversations involving AI interactions, making them easier to find at any time. It would have included all chats containing AI-generated replies, such as those from chatbots created in the AI Studio. However, this feature is no longer being prioritized in its original form, as it now appears that its development is taking a different direction from what was initially announced. Following the release of the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.18.25 update, which is available on the Google Play Store, we discovered that WhatsApp is working on an AI-powered feature to filter chats that need a manual message!
As you can see from the attached screenshot, WhatsApp is exploring the implementation of a business feature that will collect all those chats that require a manual response from the user, scheduled for release in a future update. Businesses on WhatsApp can currently take advantage of Business AI replies, an AI-powered optional feature designed to automate customer support and engagement. These AI replies are generated based on the business profile information, product catalog, policies, and frequently asked questions. Once enabled, Business AI can respond to a wide range of customer inquiries, such as business hours, product details, payment options, shipping methods, and ongoing promotions.
AI replies are particularly helpful in managing high volumes of conversations, reducing response time, and ensuring consistent and accurate information delivery. For example, if a customer asks about return policies or shipping fees, the AI can immediately provide answers without requiring any action from a human representative. Businesses can also customize how and when the AI should respond, such as only during non-working hours or only in chats generated via ads on Facebook and Instagram.
Despite the efficiency of AI replies, there are scenarios where human intervention is still necessary. A customer might ask a question that is too complex or specific for the AI to handle, or the AI-generated response may not fully satisfy the customer's request. In such cases, customers may explicitly request to speak with a human, or the AI might detect that the inquiry requires escalation. These are moments when businesses need to step in manually to resolve the issue or provide a more personalized response.
This is where the new AI-handoff chat list feature comes into play. WhatsApp is developing a smart filter that will group those chats in which the AI replies were insufficient or where user input is required. This allows business staff to quickly identify and prioritize conversations that require their attention, without opening each chat to check for manual intervention. Businesses will be able to deliver better support by responding promptly to the most urgent or sensitive messages, while also maintaining the benefits of automation where appropriate.
The AI-handoff list will act as a bridge between automation and human support, giving businesses greater control and clarity over their customer interactions. It will empower businesses to act exactly when and where they are needed, enhancing the overall user experience without compromising on the advantages of AI automation. It's worth noting that businesses will have full control over the configuration of the AI-handoff list, including the ability to decide when chats should be removed from it, either immediately after responding or after 24 hours. If no action is taken, chats will be automatically removed from the AI-handoff list after 7 days, but they will still remain accessible in the "All" chat list or other applicable filters.
An AI-powered feature to filter chats that need a manual message 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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