WhatsApp Tests New Feature to Mark All Conversations as Read Simultaneously for Android Users

WhatsApp for Android seems to be trialing a potentially useful feature that enables users to mark all conversations as read simultaneously through a new shortcut. This functionality was identified in a beta version of the application, but it may not currently be accessible to all users. It is assumed that it will operate similar to the existing 'mark read' feature found on the iOS app, which updates the status of messages from unread to read. This development aligns with various other features that are reportedly underway within the messaging service, including an option to clear the unread messages count.

The messaging platform is said to be working on this feature as a tool for enhancing the management of conversations, as indicated by WABetaInfo, a tracker for WhatsApp features. Observations were made in the beta version 2.24.18.11 for Android. Once this feature is rolled out, users may have the capability to reset their unread message count simply by marking all messages as read at once.

A screenshot shared by the feature tracker shows that the new option is found in the overflow menu, reachable from the top-right corner of the screen, beneath the starred messages feature. While the current version of WhatsApp for Android allows users to mark all messages as read, it entails several steps, such as selecting each conversation prior to tapping on the mark as read option. The new rollout could significantly simplify this process for users.

WABetaInfo notes that the shortcut remains in development and may not yet be available to even those beta testers who have joined through the Google Play Beta program. Its introduction might coincide with an upcoming app update. It is also important to remember that, although developers frequently test a range of features in beta, not all make it to the final public version.

Beyond the shortcut feature, WhatsApp is also reportedly exploring additional functionalities. One such feature is rumored to introduce augmented reality capabilities for video calls, which would allow users to adjust various environmental settings, including lighting and backgrounds, during their calls. Moreover, it is expected to offer a dedicated light mode along with touch-up filters designed to enhance appearance in real time.