WhatsApp is introducing new Chat Filters aimed at enhancing message organization for users. This feature enables individuals to quickly access their most significant conversations without the need to sift through their entire chat history. Modeled after Gmail’s functionality, the new Chat Filters provide three distinct options to streamline message navigation. These filters will be prominently displayed at the top of the chat list and are currently being rolled out to users with plans for a broader availability in the upcoming weeks.
On April 16, Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, revealed the launch of Chat Filters via a blog post. The initiative is designed to simplify the process of viewing unread chats collectively. Users can select from three filters: All, Unread, and Groups, which are accessible at the top of their chat lists.
The default view is set to “All,” while the “Unread” filter highlights messages that have either been marked as unread by the user or remain unopened. By tapping on “Groups,” users can access both group chats and community subgroups.
This new feature is particularly beneficial for users who find it challenging to keep up with unread messages from various contacts. WhatsApp has confirmed that the filter options are in the process of being rolled out and will be available to the entire user base within a few weeks. This update follows its earlier appearance in the WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.22.16.14. It is worth noting that Gmail introduced a similar filtering feature back in 2020.
The launch of Chat Filters is part of Meta’s continuous efforts to improve the user experience on WhatsApp. In December, the company introduced Pinned Messages, allowing for the highlighting of specific messages in one-on-one and group chats. Additionally, it rolled out the View Once feature for voice messages and revamped the bottom navigation bar for Android users earlier this year.
