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WhatsApp, the globally popular messaging platform used by billions, is rolling out an exciting new feature to make conversations more organized and easier to follow—threaded replies. Currently in beta testing on Android and under development for iOS, this feature mimics popular social media platforms by grouping replies into dedicated threads, especially helpful in busy group chats where multiple conversations often overlap.
Key Highlights Of WhatsApp’s Threaded Replies Feature
What Are Threaded Replies?
Threaded replies allow users to respond to specific messages with all replies grouped under the original message in a separate thread view. Unlike regular replies scattered throughout the main chat, this structure keeps conversations neat and contextually connected.
How Does The Feature Work?
When a message receives two or more replies, a small clickable indicator appears below the message bubble, displaying the number of replies. Tapping this opens a dedicated thread page showing all responses in chronological order, allowing users to read or add new replies without cluttering the main chat.
Follow-Up Replies Clarified
Within the thread, certain responses are labeled “Follow-up replies” for clear identification, making it easy to track conversation flow.
Benefits For Group Chats
In large and active groups, multiple conversations can overlap causing confusion. Threaded replies untangle this by grouping related messages, making it easier to follow specific discussions without endless scrolling or guessing.
Availability And Rollout
Currently available in limited beta for Android users (version 2.25.25.7 and above), WhatsApp plans to extend the feature to iOS and eventually complete a global rollout in the coming weeks or months.
Limitations To Know
The feature applies only to new replies after activation; older replies remain unthreaded. It does not support nested threads (replies within replies). Users don’t need the feature enabled themselves to view reply threads if the sender has it active.
Practical Use Cases Highlighting The Need
Work Groups Benefit: Teams handling multiple projects or topics can maintain focused discussions under respective messages.
Event Planning Simplified: Subgroups discussing logistics or details can keep their threads organized and accessible.
Clarity In Busy Chats: Family or community groups where numerous side conversations occur simultaneously gain greater readability.
Comparisons To Other Platforms
WhatsApp’s threaded replies are similar in logic to comment threads on Reddit and X (formerly Twitter), bringing a proven social media interaction model to messaging.
Future Prospects And Enhancements
WhatsApp aims for a consistent experience across Android and iOS. Additional improvements might include better integration with notifications, thread management options, and voice/video support within threads.
Conclusion
By introducing threaded replies, WhatsApp is addressing one of the most common causes of chat disarray—overlapping conversations—particularly in group settings. This user-centric enhancement promises to redefine how billions communicate daily, making chats more intuitive, organized, and easy to navigate. As the feature expands from beta to full availability, it is poised to become a staple of modern messaging, enhancing personal and professional communication alike.
Sources: Indian Express, WABetaInfo, Gadgets360, MacRumors, Business Standard
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