WhatsApp is reportedly testing multiple new features for its Android platform. A feature tracker has revealed that the latest beta version of WhatsApp for Android includes an innovative in-app dialer aimed at streamlining the calling process. This addition is expected to allow users to initiate calls directly from within the application, eliminating the need to switch to the default dialer and save contacts on their Android devices.
WhatsApp’s In-App Dialer
As mentioned by WABetaInfo, the upcoming in-app dialer may be presented as a floating action button in the Calls tab. This feature will enable users to utilize WhatsApp’s calling capabilities even for numbers not saved in their contacts. It has been spotted in the beta version 2.24.13.17 of WhatsApp for Android.
In addition to calling, users may also have the ability to save contacts directly from the dialer to their phone’s address book, whether as new contacts or as updates to existing ones. Furthermore, a messaging option will likely be available for users who prefer to send a WhatsApp message instead of making a call.
The in-app dialer is also expected to provide functionality that allows users to verify whether a particular number is registered on WhatsApp. Feature tracker sources indicate that this new dialer functionality is currently accessible to select users who are part of the Google Play Beta program for WhatsApp on Android.
However, staff members at Gadgets 360 have reported that they could not independently verify the feature’s availability.
New Stickers
Additionally, WhatsApp has reportedly rolled out a series of new and more dynamic stickers. This enhancement is attributed to the implementation of the Lottie framework, facilitating the creation of animations that exhibit more fluid motion. This framework allows for intricate animations to be developed using motion graphic design software like Adobe After Effects, which can be natively rendered on mobile devices.
The initial sticker pack to utilize this new framework is titled “I’m Just a Girl”, developed by BUCK, and it weighs in at 228KB. This update is being implemented for users on both WhatsApp for Android and iOS.
