WhatsApp can now be selected as the default calling and messaging app on iPhone, if users so wish (via WABetaInfo). A change in the latest version of WhatsApp available on the App Store (v25.8.74) causes the Meta-owned encrypted chat platform to now show up in the Messaging and Calling options list in iOS Settings ➝ Apps ➝ Default Apps. Apple introduced a way for users to select their preferred default apps for iPhone in iOS 18.2. Apple initially said that the feature would be coming to the European Union, but it turned out to be available worldwide. If you select WhatsApp for Messaging and/or Calling, your iPhone will automatically open the app when called upon instead of Apple's built-in options,…

WhatsApp is retesting a recently nixed setting that lets users choose whether the app automatically clears the unread message count badge on its Home Screen icon after every launch. WABetaInfo reports that the feature is controlled by a new toggle in WhatsApp's iOS notification settings, called "Clear Badge." The setting carries the description: "Your home screen badge clears completely after every time you open the app." The option, which is already available in WhatsApp for Android, should serve to reduce clutter on the user's Home Screen, and potentially lessen "unread anxiety." WABetaInfo notes that the feature may have already appeared for some users in the past few weeks, including those on the stable release from the App Store. However, for…

WhatsApp has announced the introduction of chat themes, giving users the freedom to personalize their conversations using custom colors for both chat bubbles and backgrounds. The encrypted messaging platform is also adding 30 new wallpaper options to help users further customize their chat experience. The new customization options let you either choose from preset themes that modify both chat bubbles and backgrounds simultaneously, or mix and match colors to create your own unique combinations. You can apply a unified theme across all your conversations and channels, but the new options mean you also have the flexibility to customize individual chats with different themes. WhatsApp notes that these customizations are visible only to the user who sets them, so personal preferences…

WhatsApp is testing a new feature that will allow users to link their social media accounts to their WhatsApp profile, according to findings in the latest iOS beta version of the app (via WABetaInfo). Based on the beta's current state, the upcoming feature adds a dedicated section within WhatsApp's Account settings where users can input links to their social media profiles. The beta currently only supports Instagram integration, but other Meta-owned platforms like Facebook and Threads are expected to be included in the official update. Any social media links are displayed on a user's WhatsApp profile alongside existing information such as their name, phone number, and "About" section. According to the report, WhatsApp will use privacy controls similar to those…

OpenAI has announced a couple of new ChatGPT features for WhatsApp users, adding support for voice messages and image-based interactions when communicated with the chat bot via the Meta-owned chat platform. Users can now send voice messages or upload images directly in their WhatsApp conversations with the AI assistant, said OpenAI in a post on Twitter (X), although ChatGPT will continue to respond exclusively to WhatsApp users through text. To access ChatGPT on WhatsApp, you'll need to add the number 1-800-CHAT-GPT (1-800-242-8478) to your contacts. The service then functions similarly to the web-based ChatGPT, but with the convenience of the WhatsApp interface. The expansion builds upon the initial WhatsApp integration launched in December 2024, which was limited to text-based interactions.…

WhatsApp is working on expanding its group chat event planning feature to private chats, according to new changes found in the latest beta version (via WABetaInfo). Currently, WhatsApp allows you to create events from group chats to help organize gatherings and stay connected. Hosted events can be given a name, date, and time, also with a description, location, call link, and end time. Only people in the group chat can be invited. WhatsApp's plan to bring events to private chats should see all of these event planning features become available in one-on-one conversations. It's another step towards Meta's goal of keeping users in the app for longer, instead of having to switch to calendars or other apps to organize meetings,…