WhatsApp has kicked off the new year with several new features, aimed at enhancing the user experience and adding more fun to messaging and media sharing. Some of these features have been available to users already, but they should become more widely available for everyone now.
Camera Effects for Images
Building on last year’s addition of effects for video calls, WhatsApp now allows you to apply the same 30 backgrounds, filters, and effects to the photos you share. This upgrade can directly transform images with just a few taps while sharing media.
Easier Sticker Making and Sharing
Another feature is the ability to turn a selfie into a sticker. You can tap Create sticker, take a selfie, and instantly generate a custom sticker. This feature is currently rolling out for Android users and will be available on iOS shortly.
WhatsApp has also made it easier to share sticker packs with friends directly through the app, which is a welcome upgrade over saving stickers one by one.
Message Reactions with Double Tap
Reacting to messages has also been streamlined. You can now double-tap a message to react, allowing for quicker responses. The app also provides a way to easily scroll through your most frequently used reactions, making it more convenient for those who rely on reactions to communicate.
