WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.20.17: what's new?

WhatsApp has released a new Android update through the Google Play Beta Program, bringing the version up to 2.25.20.17.
What's new in this update? WhatsApp is rolling out a feature that shows how many people are typing a message in a group chat, and it's available to some beta testers!

In the article about the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.21.18 update, we announced that a redesigned typing indicator feature for individual and group chats was available. This feature introduces a more intuitive experience by displaying the typing and voice recording indicators directly within the chat interface as chat bubbles, alongside participants' profile icons. Unlike the previous version that placed this information in the top app bar, the new design provides real-time visual feedback within the conversation itself, making it easier for users to stay focused and identify who is actively participating in the chat. It appears that WhatsApp is committed to extending its efforts to improve the typing indicator by enhancing how group activity is displayed directly from the chat list. Following the release of the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.20.17 update, which is available on the Google Play Store, we discovered that WhatsApp is rolling out a feature that shows how many people are typing a message in a group chat!

As you can see from the attached screenshot, some beta testers can explore a new version of the typing indicator that appears in the chat list. In the past, when multiple people were typing in a group chat at the same time, WhatsApp only displayed the name of one participant in the chat list. This meant users couldn't understand if others were also active in the conversation unless they opened the group chat. With this update, WhatsApp now replaces the single name with a dynamic string that indicates the number of participants currently typing, such as "2 people typing".

This small change gives users a better sense of real-time group activity. It adds transparency to what's happening in the group without requiring them to enter the chat. This updated indicator is especially useful in busy groups, where several people might be composing replies at once. However, it's important to note that this enhanced feedback applies only to typing activity. If multiple users are recording voice messages at the same time, WhatsApp will still display only one participant's name in the chat list, just like before.

The ability to see how many people are typing offers users a clearer sense of the ongoing activity in a group chat. If multiple participants are typing at once, it suggests that several messages are about to be sent. This context can help users decide whether to open the chat immediately or check back later. This visibility can also help users understand when a group is especially active, potentially in response to something important. For those who are busy, it can be a clear sign to wait before opening the chat, knowing that the conversation is still unfolding.

A feature that shows how many people are typing a message in a group chat 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 weeks.

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