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Enhancing Group Calls with a Simple Gesture
WhatsApp is expanding its interactive features with the latest beta update for iOS, version 25.18.10.78, now available through TestFlight. The highlight of this update is the introduction of a raised hand emoji during voice and video calls, aimed at improving real-time communication without interruptions. Initially available for Android beta users, this subtle yet powerful feature is now being extended to iOS users as part of WhatsAppâs effort to streamline experiences across platforms.
A Smoother, More Organized Call Experience
With the raised hand emoji, WhatsApp aims to bring order and structure to group calls, especially in environments where clear communication is vital. When a participant wants to speak, they can tap an option in the call interface to display a raised hand emoji visible to all others in the call. This polite, visual cue helps avoid awkward interruptions and lets everyone take turns more effectively.
Users can access the raised hand option through the three-dot menu at the bottom of the call screen, making it quick and intuitive. Whether in professional settings like business meetings or educational calls, or even large family chats, this feature promises to enhance collaboration and reduce the typical chaos that comes with multiple people speaking simultaneously.
Although the rollout is gradual and currently limited to a subset of beta testers, the update signals WhatsAppâs intent to refine virtual interaction tools. Interestingly, some users on the stable App Store version may also spot this feature, indicating WhatsApp may be running A/B tests or a phased release strategy.
The functionality mirrors whatâs already available in other communication tools like Zoom or Microsoft Teams, placing WhatsApp more firmly in the race to dominate the remote conversation space. It’s also a step forward in WhatsAppâs broader evolutionâfrom a simple messaging app to a robust communication platform.
The raised hand emoji is especially useful in structured calls like online classes, workshops, or project syncs, where speaking order matters. Instead of verbal interruptions, participants can silently signal their readiness to contribute, allowing moderators or hosts to manage flow seamlessly.
As this update progresses, more users will gain access to this practical feature. WhatsApp is clearly listening to community feedback and continues to innovate on the user experience front. It’s a small addition with a big impactâone that could redefine how we conduct voice and video conversations on mobile.
What Undercode Say:
Bridging the Gap Between Messaging and Professional Collaboration
WhatsAppâs rollout of the raised hand emoji in iOS beta reflects a calculated and timely move toward positioning itself as more than just a casual messaging app. With remote work and digital classrooms now an everyday reality, the need for controlled, respectful, and coordinated virtual discussions has become non-negotiable. WhatsAppâs entry into this space via an emoji may seem lighthearted, but the implications are serious and strategic.
By enabling users to visually express the intent to speak, WhatsApp is solving a fundamental flaw in group call dynamicsâinterruptions and miscommunication. Apps like Zoom and Google Meet have had similar features for years. WhatsApp, with its billions of users, is late to the game but may still score big due to its massive adoption rate and frictionless UX.
The raised hand function is designed with practicality in mind. It doesnât clutter the interface, and it blends seamlessly with WhatsApp’s minimalist design. The location of the feature in the three-dot menu respects user expectations while ensuring accessibility. This ensures it wonât feel foreign or invasive to users unfamiliar with conferencing tools.
For educational institutions, trainers, and teams already using WhatsApp groups for coordination, this feature now makes it possible to carry forward that collaboration into live discussions. Virtual classrooms become more interactive. Community calls can be moderated with greater ease. Even family discussions may benefit from this added clarity.
Moreover, the staggered release strategy across both beta and stable builds is telling. WhatsApp is gauging user response before going all-in, perhaps using telemetry and engagement data to measure adoption rates. It shows an agile, test-driven development model aligned with the best practices in modern software rollout.
The timing also aligns with WhatsAppâs broader efforts to introduce business-friendly features such as screen sharing, video conferencing layouts, and cross-platform syncing. The raised hand emoji is a natural complement to this suite, contributing to a richer, more enterprise-ready platform.
From a UX design perspective, WhatsApp is walking a fine line: offering increased functionality without overwhelming the average user. Thatâs key to maintaining its core appeal. Features like the raised hand emoji feel optional and intuitive, rather than forced. This minimizes user resistance and boosts organic adoption.
WhatsAppâs decision to prioritize this for both Android and iOS betas simultaneously is commendable. It sends a message of cross-platform equality, which not all apps deliver consistently. This strategy also helps WhatsApp maintain parity between ecosystems, avoiding feature disparity complaints.
One potential downside? Without proper onboarding or tooltips, casual users might overlook the feature. However, given WhatsAppâs reach and word-of-mouth power, itâs likely the feature will gain traction organically. Plus, community forums like WABetaInfo and Discord channels are already buzzing with updates, helping drive awareness.
Overall, the raised hand emoji
đ Fact Checker Results:
â
Raised hand emoji feature confirmed for iOS beta 25.18.10.78 via TestFlight
â
Feature already tested in Android beta (2.25.19.7) earlier
â
Visible to all participants during calls when activated, aiding group communication
đ Prediction:
đ Expect full rollout of the raised hand emoji feature within the next few weeks
đ± Likely integration into WhatsApp Business for team collaboration use
đ Could become a staple in future WhatsApp update cycles, especially for classrooms and webinars
References:
Reported By: wabetainfo.com
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