WhatsApp tests a new version of Archived Chats feature

WhatsApp is beta testing an update to its Archived Chats feature, which stop interruptions by new messages from archived chats. —Pixabay

WhatsApp is updating its Archived Chats feature to make it easier for users to pick up conversations later.

Leaker site WABetaInfo reported that the new Read Later feature which will replace Archived Chats works the same way, temporarily hiding a chat.

However, it also prevents notifications from archived chats, as opposed to how archived chats currently automatically unarchive whenever users receive a new message.

Instead users will have a ‘Read Later’ pinned button on the top of their Chats column.

The first time users click the button, a banner will explain the function of Read Later.

According to a screen capture by WABetaInfo, the banner states “Archive is now read later. To reduce interruptions, chats with new messages stay here and you won’t get any notifications”.

Users can go into Settings to disable this feature, so that chats that receive new notifications will automatically unarchive.

This feature is currently under development for both Android and iOS with no fixed release date as yet.