WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.5.8: what's new?

WhatsApp is rolling out a new update through the Google Play Beta Program, bringing the version up to 2.25.5.8.
What's new in this update? WhatsApp is working on a redesigned call menu feature for chats and groups, and it will be available in a future update!

In the article about the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.21.29 update, we announced that a call link feature within individual and group chat was available to some beta testers. This feature allows users to quickly create call links directly from the chat interface, making it more convenient to initiate voice or video calls. The new call link shortcut is currently accessible within the chat attachment sheet, which can be opened by tapping the attachment icon in the chat bar. It seems that WhatsApp is developing new features designed to further enhance user convenience, particularly by improving accessibility to calling tools. Thanks to the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.5.8 update, which is available on the Google Play Store, we discovered that WhatsApp is working on a redesigned call menu feature for chats and groups!

As you can see from the attached screenshot, WhatsApp is exploring the implementation of a feature to redesign the call option available in the top app bar within individual and group chats. Currently, there are two separate buttons: the first button allows users to place a voice call, and the other for initiating a video call. When a user taps on one of these buttons, the corresponding call action is immediately executed, which can sometimes result in unintentional calls.

However, in a future update, WhatsApp is planning to unify the call buttons into a single menu that will offer additional tools beyond just making voice and video calls. This redesign will provide users with greater flexibility in managing their calls, especially within group chats. For example, instead of starting a call with all participants in a group, users will be able to select specific people they wish to call. It's worth noting that this functionality may already be available to some users, as WhatsApp often rolls out features gradually to test their performance before making them widely accessible. However, regardless of its current availability, WhatsApp is actively exploring the possibility of integrating this option into the call menu for easier access.

Additionally, the new call menu will include a shortcut to quickly create a call link. This will allow users to generate and share call links without needing to open the Calls tab or the attachment menu, which we believe it should remain focused on message-sharing options. One of the main important benefits of this redesign is that it reduces the likelihood of users accidentally initiating a call. Currently, a call starts immediately when tapping the respective button, which can lead to unintentional calls if a user presses it by mistake. With the new menu, users will first need to select their preferred call option, adding an extra layer of confirmation before the call begins. This minimizes accidental calls and enhances the overall user experience, as it reduces the chance of mistakenly dialing a contact or group.

A redesigned call menu feature for chats and groups 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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