WhatsApp Announces New App Features: QR Codes, Dark Mode Theme And More

WhatsApp has announced that it is adding new features to its apps across various platforms. The features will be rolling out to everyone using the latest version of the app in the coming weeks.

The new features are meant to improve the WhatsApp user experience for the more than 2 billion people that are using the app around the world, the developers behind the app said in a blog entry. Here's a quick look at all of the new features coming to WhatsApp.

Animated Stickers

WhatsApp said it will be rolling out new animated sticker packs that users can use for “more fun and expressive” communication with others on the platform. The company said it has decided to do this because stickers are “one of the fastest-growing ways people communicate” on the app. The company claims to see “billions” of stickers being sent per day.

QR codes

WhatsApp will be adding a new QR scanning option to the app. This feature is meant to make it easier to add new contacts. Previously, users are required to manually enter the new contacts' numbers before being allowed to send a message to them. Now, users will only need to scan a QR code to add a contact.

Dark mode for web and desktop

WhatsApp said it is rolling out the “incredibly popular Dark Mode theme” to its web and desktop platforms. Users will be able to enjoy on their computer the same dark mode on their phones.

Group video call improvements

WhatsApp recently allowed video calls of up to eight participants, MacRumors noted. Now, the app is adding a few more improvements to video calls, including the ability to focus on a participant by pressing and holding on his or her video. A new video icon will also be shown in group chats with eight participants or less.

Status on KaiOS

WhatsApp users on KaiOS will now be able to share Status updates that will disappear after 24 hours.

WhatsApp said these features will come in the next few weeks, adding that it remains focused on making the app a “simple, reliable and private way” for people to communicate with family and friends across the globe.