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WhatsApp is rolling out a new feature that lets users automatically create a new group chat based on specific poll results and add new poll options.

WhatsApp is rolling out a new feature that lets users automatically create a new group based on specific poll results. Discovered in recent beta updates, the platform is also testing functionality that allows users to add new options to existing polls.

What Happened

WhatsApp has introduced a feature that allows users to spin off a brand-new group chat directly from the poll details screen. When at least two group members vote for the same poll option, WhatsApp enables the creation of a targeted group based on that specific choice. Furthermore, the platform automatically adds the individuals who voted for that option straight into the newly formed group.

Alongside the group creation capability, WhatsApp is testing another poll-focused feature through the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.26.33.1 update. This functionality allows poll creators to open up contributions so that other group members can add new options and improve the poll together. However, creators maintain the flexibility to keep poll options fixed if they want full control over how the poll operates.

Key Details

• Group Creation Trigger: Available when at least two group members vote for the same option on a poll.
• Automatic Member Addition: WhatsApp automatically adds the specific voters to the newly created group.
• Poll Contributions: Creators can allow group members to add new options to polls or keep options fixed for full control.
• Software Versions: The group creation feature was discovered via the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.26.39.5 update available on the Google Play Store, while the poll contribution feature appeared in the Android 2.26.33.1 update.

Why It Matters

These updates streamline how users organize sub-discussions and collaborate within larger chats. By automating group creation based on shared interests or voting outcomes, users can quickly transition from a general poll to a focused conversation without manually gathering participants.

What We Know So Far

Confirmed facts include the rollout of group creation from poll results when two or more members share a vote, the automatic addition of those voters to the new group, and the ongoing testing of collaborative poll option additions where creators can choose to accept contributions or keep options fixed.

Sources

• WABetaInfo

Meta-owned messaging platform WhatsApp is developing a new feature called 'guest calls' that will allow individuals without a WhatsApp account to join voice or video calls. Reported by WABetaInfo, the feature aims to bring non-users into calls via a browser link.

What Happened

According to reports from WABetaInfo, WhatsApp is working on functionality that could soon compete directly with traditional video conferencing tools like Zoom and Google Meet. The upcoming 'guest calls' feature is designed to let people join voice or video calls even if they do not have a registered account with the chat application.

To utilize this upcoming feature for creating a call link, a user navigates to the Calls tab, generates a call link, selects either voice or video, and then shares the link or adds it directly to a calendar. When a non-account holder attempts to join via a browser session, the host must approve them before they are permitted to enter the call.

Key Details

• Feature Name: Guest calls
• Functionality: Allows non-account holders to join voice or video calls via a browser link without needing to download the app or access the web browser.
• Security: Operates with end-to-end encryption, generating a unique encryption key from the guest's browser session.
• Host Controls: Anyone joining without a WhatsApp account requires approval from the host before gaining entry.
• Creation Process: Users open the Calls tab, create a call link, select voice or video, and share or add it to a calendar.

Why It Matters

By allowing individuals to join conversations without installing the app or registering for an account, WhatsApp is expanding its utility for broader group communications. The incorporation of end-to-end encryption for browser sessions aims to maintain platform security standards for participants outside the ecosystem.

What We Know So Far

Confirmed facts include the operational mechanics of creating call links and host approval requirements. Unconfirmed details, based on reports from WABetaInfo, indicate that the feature is currently in development for iPhone users, has not yet been switched on for beta testers, and lacks a confirmed public release date. Additionally, WABetaInfo noted that the platform tested guest chats earlier this year for text conversations.

Background

WhatsApp recently introduced updates that make it easier to initiate calls directly from WhatsApp Web on browsers including Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and Safari, eliminating the requirement to download a separate desktop application.

Sources

• GB News