5 new WhatsApp features you need to know about

WhatsApp is arguably the most popular instant messaging app. However, it has now become more than just a messaging platform, thanks to all the features that Meta added in the last few years.

This year, as well, WhatsApp received a few notable features. From document scanning to the ability to add music to status updates, here are five of the newest WhatsApp features you need to know about.

All the new WhatsApp features in 2025

1. Add music to status updates

2. Scan documents on WhatsApp

3. Chat themes

4. Voice message transcripts

5. QR code for Channels

1. Add music to status updates

One of Instagram’s most popular features is available on WhatsApp. Like on Instagram, you can add music to status updates. The feature lets you show off your vibe and mood by letting you select the choice of your song from Meta’s massive catalogue.

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To add a song to status updates, you need to head to the Updates section and add an image by clicking on the camera icon. Then select the photo or video and tap on the music icon on the top. Search for the choice of your song and you are good to go.

2. Scan documents on WhatsApp

One of the most notable WhatsApp features that rolled out this year was the ability to scan documents. You no longer need to use third-party apps to scan documents, as you get a document scanner within WhatsApp. This makes the entire process of scanning a document and sharing it with others faster and easier.

To scan documents on WhatsApp, you need to open a chat and tap on the ‘+’ icon on iPhones and the attachment icon on Android. Now, tap on Document and hit Scan document.

3. Chat themes

WhatsApp also added a new personalisation and customisation feature earlier this year called Chat themes. Chat themes give your WhatsApp a new look. With this feature, you can change the colour of your WhatsApp from green to purple, orange, or any other shade. You can also choose between dark and light mode and switch to different in-chat wallpapers based on the theme.

To set a chat theme, you need to tap on Settings > Chats > Default chat theme. Now, you can choose the theme, change the default colour, and set different wallpapers to truly make your WhatsApp more personal.

4. Voice message transcripts

WhatsApp announced voice message transcripts back in November 2024 to limited users. The feature started rolling out to everyone only this year. As the name suggests, the feature gives transcriptions for voice messages, so that you don’t need to hear a voice message by brining your phone closer to your ear. This is perfect for times you are in a crowded environment and can’t play that embarrassing voice note.

ALSO READ: How to make WhatsApp your default calling and messaging app on iPhone

You can enable this feature in Settings > Chats > Voice message transcripts. Once you enable it, all the upcoming voice messages will have a transcript for you to read.

5. QR code for Channels

WhatsApp channel admins can now share a unique QR code that directly links users to their channel, making it easier to grow their audience. This feature eliminates the need to copy and paste the channel link; Instead, users can conveniently share a QR code, allowing others to join different channels with a single scan.

To share a QR code for your channel, you need to head to the channel settings and share the generated QR code.

That’s it. These are some of the new WhatsApp features you must know about. Which out of these is your favourite? Do let us know in the comments below.