The WhatsApp team has rolled out a fresh update for both Android and iOS, bringing several practical improvements to group calls and overall messaging experience. The changes include a new option that lets participants mute other speakers during group calls, along with a few supportive features designed to streamline conversations and keep group dynamics smooth. The update is being gradually distributed to users, with devices receiving the rollout at varying times depending on region and platform.
The new mute feature addresses common moments when background chatter can drown out what matters most in a conversation. If someone in the call forgets to silence their microphone, another participant can step in to mute that person briefly, ensuring the discussion stays clear and on topic. This control is available to every member of the group call, not just the person who started the meeting, making it a helpful tool for larger groups or active channels where multiple people speak in quick succession.
Along with the mute capability, the update enables private messaging between participants during a group call. This addition supports discreet side chats so users can coordinate, share notes, or handle quick questions without interrupting the main discussion. It offers a convenient way to manage turn-taking and information flow, especially in busy group sessions where participants have different priorities or languages to manage.
Another notable change is a new notification behavior within group chats. When a new member joins a group, all current participants will see a dedicated notification. This helps everyone stay aware of changes in the group composition, which can be important for maintaining context and ensuring no one misses relevant updates as the conversation evolves.
The WhatsApp developers have begun distributing these features to users on both major mobile platforms. The update is designed to work smoothly with existing group call functionality and to minimize disruption while introducing these enhancements. The gradual rollout means some users may notice the changes sooner than others, but all eligible accounts should eventually gain access to the new options.
Earlier coverage by tech outlets highlighted how WhatsApp has been refining privacy and visibility controls within chats. The current update continues that trend by expanding in-call moderation and intra-thread communication, all while keeping the core focus on reliable, fast, and secure messaging. For users who rely on WhatsApp for workplace coordination, family conversations, or community groups, these improvements can translate into clearer calls, better collaboration, and a smoother user experience overall.