WhatsApp to get Meta AI widget, video playback speed control with a new update

WhatsApp has constantly worked towards taking its user experience up a notch. From introducing ChatGPT integration to bringing in chat themes, the Meta-owned platform has plenty up the sleeve which makes it an all-around experience.

But if that’s not nearly enough, the smartphone messaging app has announced a few more new features that are not just built to enhance communication but also the overall user experience. Here’s everything new coming to the platform soon:

WhatsApp is testing new features: What's there to know?

WhatsApp’s new features come as a part of the company’s larger plan of integrating Meta AI into its functions. Recently, its latest beta updates brought in a few new design as well as functional features. Check them out here:

Meta AI Quick Assistance widget

As reported by WAbetainfo.com, the new Meta AI widget will allow users to communicate with the chatbot directly from their device’s home screen. This successfully eliminates the need to navigate to the chatbot and access AI-powered in times of need.

The website mentions how it will cater to multiple functions, including text-based AI queries, voice mode activation, as well as AI analysis for uploaded images — without even launching the smartphone app. Moreover, users will also be able to resize this according to their needs.

AI-generated group icon

Available to select users on Android beta version 2.25.6.10, the new (but limited) feature helps generate group icons with only a prompt. Once a prompt is entered, Meta AI creates multiple unique group icons that users can choose from for their conversations.

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This is currently available for beta testers who can tap on the pencil icon in a group. Within the existing list, users will find a fifth option titled ‘Create AI images’. The tool adds a personalised touch to the group chat and does away with the need to manually add an image.

Adjustable video playback speed

WhatsApp previously added adjustable speed for its voice notes and is testing this feature for its videos as well. With this in place, users will be able to speed up uploaded/received videos at 1.5x or 2x speed. According to Meta, this feature was brought in to help users consume lengthy content with ease.

While it remains to be seen as to when these features may make their way to the stable version of the app, it’s safe to say we might have plenty of AI integration in the way we communicate on a day-to-day basis. For more, be sure you’re subscribed to Unboxed by Croma.