WhatsApp has initiated the rollout of a new feature aimed at enhancing user experience within the settings section of its iOS app, as detailed in the latest beta update. The messaging app, owned by Meta, has consistently introduced various functionalities over time that enable users to tailor their experience and privacy options. The introduction of a search bar now allows users to easily locate specific settings instead of navigating through the multitude of available options.
According to feature tracker WABetaInfo, the search bar is now being made available to beta testers using the iOS version of WhatsApp, specifically for those on beta version 23.4.0.73. The feature may also be accessible to users running other builds within the 23.4.0 range.
The new search bar is positioned above the user’s profile image on the settings page. Users can enter specific keywords, such as “Photo,” to access settings under Storage and Data or Privacy (specifically for their profile photo), or “Notification” to find options related to chat and group notifications, including sound and vibration preferences.
The introduction of the search feature may significantly assist elderly users and those new to the app in quickly finding commonly used settings. Currently, users may spend several minutes exploring various settings to locate specific options; now, a simple search could yield immediate results. However, there is no indication yet on when this feature will be available in the stable version of WhatsApp.
In addition, WABetaInfo has noted that WhatsApp is also testing a new feature that enables the reporting of status updates in beta version 23.4.0.74 for iOS users. This follows last month’s testing of a reporting feature for statuses on the Android version of the app. The new option will allow users to report content that violates WhatsApp’s Terms of Service. Although statuses are protected by end-to-end encryption, any reported content is sent to WhatsApp for moderation in line with the app’s privacy policy.
