WhatsApp is working on a new tab for its Android app that will simplify contact management. The “Contacts” tab, spotted in the beta version, aims to provide users with faster access to their WhatsApp contacts in their phone address book.
The new section is planned to be added as a separate tab to the app's bottom navigation bar. This will allow users to view their contacts in a single list, independent of the chat screen. The feature is currently being tested by a limited number of users who have joined the beta program via the Google Play Store.
One of the notable functions of the tab will be the online status indicator. A green dot will appear next to the names of contacts who share their online status. This will allow users to see which of their contacts are currently active directly on the Contacts screen.
WhatsApp is also including birthday reminders on the same screen. For contacts whose birthday information is saved in the phone address book, a cake emoji and the phrase “Birthday today” will be displayed on the relevant day. It is stated that this information will be automatically retrieved from contact records.
LINKS CAN BE SENT TO INVITE THEM TO THE APP
There will be a search bar at the top of the Contacts tab. Users will be able to search by name, phone number, or username. Listing options will include activity-based sorting, which highlights those who are online, as well as alphabetical sorting.
Options will also be provided via the new tab to invite people who do not use WhatsApp. This will allow users to send links to contacts in their phone address book to invite them to join the app.
It is stated that the new online indicator will work in conjunction with existing privacy settings. Users who have turned off their last seen information or do not share their online status will not appear as online in the Contacts tab.
It is not yet known when the Contacts tab will arrive in the stable version. Since the feature is in the development stage, changes to its design and functions are possible throughout the testing process.
News Source: 12punto
