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  • WhatsApp will no longer be supported on basic mobile phones starting in 2025. Check to see which devices are affected.

    WhatsApp will no longer be supported on basic mobile phones starting in 2025. Check to see which devices are affected.

    WhatsApp will stop working on basic mobile phones that run on the KaiOS operating system starting in 2025. The reason for this decision was not provided on the KaiOS website. This operating system is commonly found in Nokia, Positive, and Multilaser devices that provide simple and cost-effective options for users.

    WhatsApp will no longer be supported on mobile devices using KaiOS.

    KaiOS is a system created from Firefox OS, tailored for simple mobile phones without touch screens. The company indicated that their decision to discontinue WhatsApp support may stem from the need to ensure security and functionality on older devices and software.

    Users who have not linked their devices to WhatsApp or have disconnected before June 25, 2023, will no longer have access to the app. Those with an active WhatsApp on their devices can continue using it until early 2025.

    WhatsApp recently upgraded its compatibility requirements to Android OS 5.0 or higher and iOS 12 or higher, resulting in the discontinuation of support for around 17 Android smartphones and iPhones.

    Models that have been impacted

    The WhatsApp support page currently states that devices running KaiOS 2.5.0 and higher, such as JioPhone and JioPhone 2, are compatible. However, this support will soon be discontinued, impacting all devices on this operating system version.

    There is currently no news about modifications to WhatsApp for Android and iOS systems. The decision to discontinue support appears to target basic phones using KaiOS.

    What should be done?

    Consider upgrading to a newer device that supports the latest versions of WhatsApp to ensure service continuity. Keep an eye out for guidance from KaiOS and WhatsApp for a smooth transition.

    This update underscores the significance of maintaining current devices and supports the ongoing progression of technology toward advancements in security and innovation.

  • WhatsApp is getting ready to release an update that includes usernames and PINs. Explore the modifications.

    WhatsApp is getting ready to release an update that includes usernames and PINs. Explore the modifications.

    WhatsApp is getting ready to release a new update for beta users on Google Play, which will bring the version to 2.24.18.2. The main highlight of this update is the introduction of a feature that enables users to create custom usernames with PIN support, aiming to enhance privacy and security within the app.

    What alterations occur to the user name and PIN?

    WhatsApp is developing a new feature that enables users to create a distinctive username for communication within the app, providing an alternative to using phone numbers and enhancing privacy by avoiding direct sharing of personal information.

    Criação de nome de usuário no WhatsApp; Foto: WBI
    Imagem: timmossholder/FreeImages

    WhatsApp is working on a new PIN feature for usernames to add an extra level of security. This PIN, with a minimum of four digits, will be required for initial contact with other users, reducing unwanted messages and allowing only authorized users to initiate conversations.

    Enhanced authority and confidentiality

    WhatsApp’s PIN feature is designed to empower users by allowing them to decide who can contact them first. Existing contacts will still have access to your phone number, but you can choose to use a username for future communication to maintain your privacy. It’s important to note that the PIN is optional and not required for ongoing conversations.

    When will it happen?

    This feature that allows usernames to be supported by a PIN is currently being worked on and will be included in a forthcoming update, with no specific release date yet.

    Information comes from WBI.

  • WhatsApp is testing a new feature to make it easier to view Status updates.

    WhatsApp is testing a new feature to make it easier to view Status updates.

    WhatsApp is experimenting with a new feature to make it easier for users to engage with the Status feature, resembling Instagram and Facebook Stories. The parent company, Meta, is working on a shortcut that allows users to see photos and videos of their contacts directly on the Status View page.

    A new testing option is already available on Instagram and Facebook.

    The new feature in beta version 2.24.19.4 for Android, as reported by WABetaInfo, enhances the usability of Status by enabling users to view updates without having to navigate the app’s home screen horizontal tray, potentially increasing user engagement with short-term posts.

    WhatsApp testa nova função para facilitar a visualização de Status. Imagem: WABetaInfo/Reprodução
    Imagem: stephmcblack/iStock

    Currently, the new shortcut is being tested, and there is no estimated release date for all WhatsApp users. Meta anticipates that this update will enhance the visibility of Status and streamline interactions.

  • WhatsApp is testing a new button for users who enjoy sharing Status updates.

    WhatsApp is testing a new button for users who enjoy sharing Status updates.

    A recent WhatsApp test update was released via the Google Play Beta Program. The latest version, 2.24.20.9, introduces a feature that could benefit users who enjoy customizing their contacts’ statuses in the app. This new feature is currently being tested and may be included in upcoming updates of the messaging platform.

    WhatsApp now enables users to reference a status in their chats.

    The beta version 2.24.20.3 of WhatsApp introduced the feature to mention contacts in status updates, enabling users to directly involve specific contacts in their updates through notifications.

    WhatsApp now offers the option to redirect status updates in version 2.24.20.9, which can be accessed through the Google Play Beta Program on the Google Play Store.

    Novo recurso permite reenvio de status do WhatsApp
    Imagem: driles/FreePik

    WhatsApp is looking into introducing a new button for resending status updates where users are mentioned in a future update. The current button, available to some beta testers, is a simple icon next to the caption bar, which might not be clear to all users. The upcoming redesigned button will be larger, feature both an icon and text, and be placed above the caption bar to make its function more apparent to users.

  • WhatsApp should enable users to customize the colors and themes of their chats.

    WhatsApp should enable users to customize the colors and themes of their chats.

    WhatsApp is developing new customization options that will enable users to personalize each chat with different themes, such as wallpapers and colors, as reported by WABetaInfo and Android Authority.

    WhatsApp is getting ready to introduce a new feature.

    According to information from the beta v2.24.20.12 version of WhatsApp for Android, the company is working on a feature that will enable users to apply various themes to their conversations. These themes can be customized for each conversation with individual contacts, offering options like specific color schemes and the ability to add custom wallpapers. Users will have access to 11 preset themes, with the option to choose custom colors for further customization. Additionally, a brightness slider will be available for adjusting the theme’s intensity based on user preference. While themes can be applied to all conversations by default, users can also choose to customize specific conversations with different themes. Notably, the selected theme will be visible to the other participant in the conversation, creating a shared customization experience.

    WhatsApp is investing heavily in developing a new feature, which may soon be available to all users in a future update, although there is no set release date yet.

  • Microsoft Copilot+ is now available on WhatsApp at no cost; learn how to utilize it

    Microsoft Copilot+ is now available on WhatsApp at no cost; learn how to utilize it

    Microsoft has introduced an exciting new feature for WhatsApp users: Copilot+, its AI assistant, can now be accessed within the messaging app at no cost. This announcement was made on October 1 and includes intelligent functions like creating images and summarizing texts.

    How does Copilot+ function on WhatsApp?

    Conversa do Copilot+ no WhatsApp. Imagem: Oficina da Net
    Imagem: GernotBra/DepositPhotos

    Any WhatsApp user can now utilize the Microsoft AI generative within the app by clicking on an access link and sending a “Hi Copilot” in the conversation window. Upon acceptance, users can explore a range of AI features.

    • Ask questions and receive responses in a natural manner.
    • Summarize lengthy texts.
    • Modify the tone of a message to appear either more formal or informal.
    • Develop narratives from simple concepts.
    • Create pictures using written descriptions.

    This virtual assistance is free and available in Portuguese for Brazilians, making Copilot+ convenient for those looking to streamline their daily tasks on WhatsApp.

    Additional aspects of Copilot+

    Microsoft has introduced additional features to Copilot, including Copilot Voice for voice conversations with the AI and Copilot Daily for news summaries and weather forecasts in audio format.

    Copilot Discover, another notable feature, utilizes past user interactions to recommend activities like improving social skills or engaging in meditation.

    While certain functions are currently limited to English-speaking nations like the US and UK, Microsoft intends to introduce Copilot+ to additional languages and regions in the future.

  • Did this cookie show up on your WhatsApp? Learn about the functioning of Meta AI.

    Did this cookie show up on your WhatsApp? Learn about the functioning of Meta AI.

    Many WhatsApp users in Brazil were surprised to see a new colored ball in the corner of the app screen, signaling the introduction of a new artificial intelligence tool named Meta AI, which appeared unexpectedly.

    What is Meta AI and what are its functions?

    Meta AI functions as a virtual assistant designed to assist WhatsApp users by offering support features. It operates akin to ChatGPT, enabling users to make inquiries, generate images, and complete tasks within the chat interface. This assistant is accessible as a new chat tab on WhatsApp and is also present on other Meta platforms like Facebook.

    Interface inicial da Meta AI. Imagem: Oficina da Net
    Imagem: timmossholder/UnPlash

    The technology powering Meta AI is the Llama (Large Language Model Meta AI), an advanced language model created by the company. It can respond to queries, offer suggestions, and conduct searches within WhatsApp by simply clicking on the ball icon on the screen to engage with the AI.

    Meta AI has several primary functions.

    • Users can receive immediate responses by asking questions.
    • IA generates images by following the instructions given when the “imagine” command is typed.
    • IA enables users to search for information within the app itself, eliminating the need to exit WhatsApp for search purposes.
    • AI can be incorporated into group discussions by typing “@Meta AI” and posing inquiries.

    Can Meta AI on WhatsApp be deactivated?

    The company states that while using Meta AI is not mandatory, it cannot be entirely turned off. However, users who prefer not to engage with the virtual assistant can disregard it. Additionally, conversations with AI can be archived or deleted to prevent them from showing up on the app’s main screen.

    Interactions with Meta AI are not fully encrypted, allowing the company to monitor them for enhancing artificial intelligence performance. Other messages in the application, however, remain protected by standard encryption.

    What are the kitchen staff’s thoughts on the new item?

    The introduction of Meta AI on WhatsApp sparked various debates on social media. Some users appreciated the new feature, while others raised concerns about the interface and the challenge of locating contacts using the search bar following the update. Criticisms included doubts about the functionality and claims of occasional errors.

    View some responses on X (Twitter):

    My mother is experiencing anxiety because WhatsApp now has artificial intelligence.

    @Meta forced the installation of @metaai on WhatsApp without our consent, and when we tested it, we found that the AI lacks basic knowledge. This could lead people to trust unreliable information, resulting in a society of ignorance. Mark Zuckerberg should address this serious issue. Shared by @geornalista.

    The top IA DO WhatsApp memes make a valuable contribution.

    I personally went to verify the Meta AI on WhatsApp to confirm that the information shared was not a meme.

    What are your thoughts on the news? Have you ever seen her on your WhatsApp?