WhatsApp for Android Update Rolls Out With Custom Notifications and More

WhatsApp for Android has received an update that brings several new features including the mark as unread, custom notifications, among others. The new updated WhatsApp for Android is now available to download via Google Play.

Notably, the app update rolling out to users via Google Play was initially rolled out to users in July; though at that time it could be only downloaded via the company's official website. The new app update bumps the version to 2.12.250.

(Also see: Why Using WhatsApp for Work Is a Terrible Idea)

The WhatsApp for Android update brings custom notifications settings for individual contacts or groups. The new setting can be found in a contact's or group's detail page just below the media box. The notification setting box includes options to mute chat as well as a new custom notification option. The feature lets users to select custom options for tones, vibration length, popup notification, notification light, and call notification tone.

The update also brings mark as unread feature that allows users to mark a chat as unread by just tapping and holding any conversation. Notably, the mark as unread feature doesn't switch the status for the sender and only makes changes at the receiver's end. The feature can be useful in case where a user wants to come back to a chat at a later time.

Additionally, WhatsApp for Android update adds low data usage option for voice calls, which can be useful at locations where there is limited connectivity. Users can opt the option for WhatsApp calls in Settings > Chats and Calls.

(Also see: You Can Now Dictate WhatsApp Messages via Google Now Voice Command)

The update also brings new emojis to WhatsApp. Users can tap and hold onto an emoji to choose a different colour. Some of the other additions include option to quickly message or save a contact if on WhatsApp - when someone sends a contact card. The update adds support for two languages - Urdu and Bengali.