WhatsApp is introducing a new feature that makes it easier to act on information shared in conversations. Called Message Text Actions, the update identifies details such as phone numbers, email addresses, dates and locations, offering users relevant shortcuts without requiring them to copy and paste information into other apps.
The feature is gradually rolling out to selected Android and iOS users. It aims to simplify everyday tasks, particularly when people share meeting schedules, contact details or addresses through chats.
The app provides an underlined dotted line under certain pieces of information identified by WhatsApp within the ongoing conversation. Users can click on this piece to access a menu listing the possible options that can be performed. The function can be used in both incoming and outgoing messages. Users can choose not to pay attention to these options.
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The choice of actions depends on the information that is recognized by WhatsApp. In case it is about phone numbers, then the user can choose whether to copy the information, use it to create contacts, or call the contact through his/her mobile network.
In case there is shared information about a date or an appointment, then there will be an option to create a new event in the phone calendar or inside the app itself. Similarly, in case of addresses, there will be an option to open maps with this address, while emails will open the phone's default mail app.
Privacy is another important aspect of the update. According to WABetaInfo, WhatsApp identifies these details directly on the device using pattern-matching technology. The message content is not sent to the company's servers for this process. The feature does not change WhatsApp's existing end-to-end encryption protection.
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Text Message Actions have been made available to select users who have the latest version of WhatsApp running on their Android and iOS devices. This will be rolled out gradually, and thus it might not be found on all devices immediately.