WhatsApp is gearing up for some major updates to its messaging platform. Among them is a possible new feature that allows users to share files using a local network without an Internet connection Additionally, the app may soon introduce a feature that allows users to add notes to their contacts.
The ability to share files on the local network was mentioned earlier, a new screenshot of the app’s installation screen reveals the specific permissions required to enable this feature. These screenshots are of WhatsApp’s Android beta version 2.24.9.22 (Beta info via Western Australia), indicating that the company WhatsApp is experimenting with a way to share different types of files, such as photos and documents, with nearby users without requiring cellular data or an Internet connection.
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Opt-in to local file sharing systems
Based on the screenshots, it appears that sharing files on the local network requires users to choose to be discovered by nearby users. Importantly, users retain the ability to revoke these permissions at any time Similar to WhatsApp messages, file sharing through this method will be end-to-end encrypted, keeping user data safe throughout the process.
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Additionally, WhatsApp is also testing a feature that will enable users to add notes to their contacts. Android Beta 2.24.9.17 introduces a new note field in the contact form, allowing users to add useful information about their contacts for personal reference. These notes will only be visible to the user who created them and will not be accessible to contacts The feature is expected to be available not only on the mobile app but also on WhatsApp Web.
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Future release dates are uncertain
Both features are currently in beta testing and no firm release date has been announced. However, if user feedback during testing is positive, we expect to see these features in future updates of the app.
