Channels on WhatsApp are being tested for automatic album creation.
WhatsApp is known for frequently adding new features that improve the overall user experience. And now the Meta-owned app is introducing another change in the form of an automatic album creation feature for channels. This change spotted by WABetaInfo is included in the latest WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.23.26.16.
The feature works when channel admins share multiple images and videos on their specific channels. WhatsApp now automatically organizes them into one album. Later, channel members can easily tap on it to access all media files.
While this may seem like a common feature that has been around in chats and groups for years, it was noticeably missing from channels. With this update, the media organization of files is now much clearer. Actions work in the same way as personal chats or groups.
Who is it coming to?
WABetaInfo notes that this feature is currently only available to some beta testers who have installed the latest WhatsApp beta version (v2.23.26.16) from the Google Play Store for Android. It is not clear when this feature will be included in the public release, so it will be available to everyone.
That being said, this is a welcome addition that makes channels that require media appear clearer, reducing unnecessary confusion.
In related news, WhatsApp is also testing a new reply bar for status updates. Currently in beta, this feature allows users to easily interact with another user’s status update. Because it is always visible, it can increase interaction, eliminating the need to swipe up on the answer menu. In a way, this is quite similar to Instagram where you can reply directly to stories. It will be available for both Android and iOS users.
