WhatsApp is reportedly testing a new feature that would allow creators and businesses to send newsletters to subscribers, according to code spotted in a beta version of the app. The feature, which is currently being tested by a small group of users, would allow creators to set up a newsletter subscription service, where subscribers would receive updates via WhatsApp.
The feature appears to be a new way for WhatsApp to compete with other newsletter services such as Substack, which has seen rapid growth in recent years. It could also be a way for creators to better connect with their audiences, as WhatsApp has over two billion monthly active users and is widely used around the world.
While the feature is still in testing, it could prove to be a valuable tool for creators and businesses looking to expand their reach and engage with their audiences. It could also provide WhatsApp with a new revenue stream, as the company has been exploring ways to monetize its platform without resorting to advertising.
It is not clear when the feature will be rolled out to all WhatsApp users, but if successful in testing, it could be a significant addition to the platform’s offerings. The newsletter feature could also help to keep users engaged with WhatsApp, which has seen increased competition from other messaging apps in recent years, such as Signal and Telegram.
In addition to the newsletter feature, WhatsApp is also testing other new features such as a search function for the web version of the app, and the ability to send disappearing messages in group chats. With these new features in development, it appears that WhatsApp is working to improve the user experience and maintain its position as one of the most popular messaging apps in the world.