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WhatsApp has rolled out a major set of new features aimed at improving how people connect, communicate and create content across calls, chats and status updates just in time for the 2025 holiday season. The company’s latest update introduces voicemail-style missed call messages, fun Status stickers, enhanced AI imaging tools and several other usability upgrades designed to make the app more engaging and practical for everyday use. In a blog, WhatsApp said:
We’re introducing another bundle of features just in time for the holidays. This edition is packed with exciting new updates including missed call messages, fun Status stickers, improved Meta AI image generation, and more – making it easier than ever to connect with those who matter most.
One of the headline additions is the missed call messages feature, which lets users record a voice or video note immediately after a call goes unanswered. Depending on the type of call (voice or video), WhatsApp prompts the caller to leave a corresponding message directly within the chat, replacing the need for traditional voicemail. Recipients can play these missed call messages with a single tap when they open the conversation.
Alongside this innovation, WhatsApp has introduced reactions in voice chats and a group call speaker spotlight, which automatically highlights the active speaker during video calls to make group conversations easier to follow. These enhancements aim to make real-time communication more fluid and expressive.
According to WBI:
In the Status section, WhatsApp is adding interactive Status stickers, including music lyric templates, questions and other creative designs that allow users to make more dynamic and engaging updates. Viewers can respond directly to posted Status queries or interact with stickers, expanding how people express themselves and interact with content.
WhatsApp is also upgrading its Meta AI image generation tools, incorporating newer models that aim to improve image quality and creative output. Some updates include AI-powered photo animation, which turns static photos into short videos for sharing in chats or on Status. These capabilities bring more creative options for users to personalize their conversations and posts.
The update extends to the desktop version of WhatsApp, where a redesigned media tab consolidates all shared media, documents and links across conversations for easier searching and organization. Link previews have also been refined to reduce clutter and improve readability.
