WhatsApp Android beta update introduces voicemail, new interface, more

WhatsApp Android Beta v2.16.189 has been updated with call back and voicemail features. If you are part of the Google Play beta testing program, you should have noticed these two new features on v2.16.189, which is the latest update to the mobile-based messaging app.

Earlier, the callback and voicemail features were spotted in April in translation requests. However, the Facebook-owned company hasn’t revealed when these new features will be rolled out globally in a stable build for Android and iOS.

WhatsApp Android Beta Features

To work with these new features, you need to apply to participate in the Google Play beta testing program for WhatsApp. After you are enrolled, you will be able to download the latest build. Alternatively, you can download the signed APK file from the relevant mirror download location.

After you installed WhatsApp Android beta v2.16.189 on your smartphone, you need to establish a call to one of your contacts. If the relevant contact declines your call or does not pick it up (probably driving), you will be able to view a new screen with a message – ‘Call declined’ alongside three options such as Cancel, Call back, Record voice message. Interestingly, the callback feature will work even if the recipient does not have the latest version of the app.

While the Cancel option automatically closes the new screen, the Call back option provides an ability to call back the person who had just declined or ignored your call.

The final option enables you to record a voice message just like the voice messages delivered from within the chat interface. After you complete the recording process by holding the option, the relevant message will be available for future use inside the chat conversation window between you and the recipient. The bets update also include two-factor authentication and new user interface.

Previously this week, WhatsApp for Android beta app rolled out a new font which can be displayed using three quotes on both the left and right side without the ability to make use of any formatting rules.

In June 2015, WhatsApp introduced a new feature to enable users to quote messages when replying by selecting the relevant option from the top navigation panel. Moreover, you can long press a specific content to perform various actions pertaining to the message.

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Anand

Anand Deb

Anand is a social geek blogger and tech enthusiast. He loves writing about technology and photography. He specializes the field of Internet Marketing and interested to dig deeper into the world of media and social networking.