WhatsApp releases new features for holidays: Missed call messages, Status stickers, and more

Calls get smarter with voice notes, reactions, and better visibility

WhatsApp is introducing a new way to respond when someone misses a call. Instead of the traditional voicemail, users can now leave a quick voice or video note automatically tailored to the type of call they attempted. It takes only one tap and is designed to help people reconnect without waiting for someone to pick up.

These real-time audio sessions already allow groups to talk without alerting everyone with a ringtone. Now, participants can react inside the voice chat, giving people a chance to send a quick “cheers!” or acknowledgement without talking over the conversation.

For video gatherings, the app will now highlight whoever is speaking, ensuring the active voice takes visual priority.

Meta AI powers new creative tools for chats

WhatsApp says its upgraded Meta AI image generator now draws on new model capabilities from Midjourney and Flux, producing more polished graphics for holiday cards, greetings, and Status posts.

In addition to improved artwork, users can turn any photo into a short animated clip. The feature is designed to add a playful, seasonal touch to conversations without leaving the app.

A new media tab brings documents, images, videos, and links into a consolidated view, making it easier to track everything shared across chats on Mac, Windows, and the web.

Long URLs are now presented in a cleaner, more compact format so they don’t break up conversations or clutter the screen.

New ways to express yourself on Status and Channels

WhatsApp is adding fresh sticker options, music lyrics, and questions that friends can respond to directly. Some stickers even allow tap-to-engage interactions, giving users more ways to play with the format.

Channel owners can now post questions to gather feedback in real time, helping them better understand and engage with their audiences.