WhatsApp is currently in the process of developing a new feature that will enable users to share images as stickers directly within the chat application on their smartphones. This capability, detected by a feature tracking service, is still in the works and aims to reduce reliance on external sticker-making applications. Currently, WhatsApp Web users have access to a built-in sticker maker tool, and there are indications that similar functionality could soon be introduced to both iOS and Android platforms. Additionally, the platform has started prompting users on these operating systems to input their encrypted chat backup passwords periodically to help maintain access to their backups.
The new sticker maker feature has been identified in version 23.10.0.74 of the WhatsApp beta for iOS, according to WABetaInfo. However, the feature is still under development, meaning that even beta testers do not yet have access to try it out. WhatsApp initially launched sticker functionality in 2018.
While details on the precise workings of the feature remain scarce, WABetaInfo shared a screenshot illustrating a New Sticker option that appears at the bottom of the “share” action sheet, right under the Poll choice. The feature is expected to permit users to select images from their galleries, edit them, or remove backgrounds before sharing them in conversations.
Currently, both Android and iOS users can craft their own stickers, but this process necessitates the use of third-party software to edit images prior to importing them into WhatsApp. This upcoming feature may render such external apps unnecessary.
In comparison, the built-in tool could function similarly to the existing sticker maker on WhatsApp Web, which allows users to upload images and customize them to produce stickers. For iOS users on version 16, there is also the option to long-press on images to automatically isolate the subject, which can then be dragged into WhatsApp to create a sticker.
Moreover, WABetaInfo has reported the implementation of reminders for encrypted chat backups, aimed at helping users remember their passwords to avoid losing access to backups. Users are given the option to enter their password and click the Continue button, or they can select the Turn Off Encrypted Backups button to revert to an older, less secure backup method, and then re-encrypt the backup with a new password.
