WhatsApp is rolling out an updated feature designed to enhance how group chat mute notifications work, addressing user confusion and improving clarity. The changes are part of an upcoming update for both Android and iOS, and beta testers already have access to the new functionality.
What’s Changing in the Mute Feature?
Previously, muting a group chat on WhatsApp didn’t entirely silence notifications; users still received alerts for mentions and direct replies. While this behavior has been the default for years, many users found it confusing. To resolve this, WhatsApp is introducing a redesigned notification management system that makes it clearer which alerts users will continue to receive even after muting a group.
The revamped mute feature allows users to choose between two notification modes:
- All: Receive notifications for every group message.
- Highlights: Get alerts only for mentions, replies, and other direct interactions.
This enables users to stay updated on critical messages while avoiding the flood of notifications in busy groups.
Read More: Pakistan’s WhatsApp hack count surpasses 1,400 in FIA report
Default Settings Based on Group Size
To further enhance user experience, WhatsApp now applies default notification settings based on group size:
- Large groups: Notifications are automatically set to “Highlights,” meaning users will only be notified about direct interactions like mentions or replies.
- Small groups: Notifications default to “All,” ensuring users don’t miss any messages unless they choose to modify this setting.
This adaptive approach is particularly useful for managing high-traffic group chats while maintaining flexibility for smaller, more personal groups.
Addressing User Confusion
Many users were previously unaware that muting a group chat didn’t entirely silence notifications. They would still receive alerts for mentions and direct replies, which often led to misunderstandings. The new notification management system explicitly clarifies how muting works. When muting a group, users will see a detailed screen explaining that they will continue to receive notifications for targeted interactions, even if general alerts are silenced. This transparency is aimed at improving user control and preventing misunderstandings about the mute feature’s functionality.
Enhanced Control for Beta Testers
Beta testers using the latest versions of WhatsApp on Android (2.24.24.10) and iOS (24.23.10.75) are already exploring the updated mute feature. When managing notifications, they can view a revamped settings screen that clearly outlines their options and helps them tailor alerts according to their preferences.
Users can now prioritize meaningful interactions, such as mentions and replies, while avoiding unnecessary distractions from general messages in large group chats. This refined approach makes group chats more manageable, particularly in professional or community settings where message volumes can be overwhelming.
Broader Rollout on the Horizon
WhatsApp plans to make this feature widely available in the coming weeks. The updates aim to simplify the notification experience, enhance clarity, and provide users with better tools for managing their group chats.
Read More: WhatsApp’s new update makes losing contacts a thing of the past
For those eager to try the feature, the latest WhatsApp beta updates are available on the Google Play Store for Android and TestFlight for iOS. With this rollout, WhatsApp reaffirms its commitment to improving user experience by addressing long-standing concerns and offering practical solutions.