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WhatsApp is testing a new search button for iPhone users who want to find old messages faster. The feature appeared in iOS beta version 26.31.10.70 through TestFlight on August 10. WhatsApp is working on the tool to make searching within long chats easier.
The new button could open chat search directly without opening the chat information page. WABetaInfo spotted the feature while checking the latest WhatsApp beta for iOS.
The new search button would appear when users scroll up through older messages in a chat. It would sit near the bottom of the screen and offer quick access to search. Tapping the button would open the usual search box inside the same conversation. WABetaInfo said, “This would let users enter search mode without ever leaving the chat.”
The button would also hide when users return to the newest messages. This keeps the chat screen simple and avoids adding another permanent button.
The current iPhone method takes more steps to find an old message. Users need to open the chat, tap the contact or group name, then choose Search. The new shortcut could reduce this process to a single tap.
The feature could help people who often search through long group chats or older conversations. It could make finding old links, plans, names, files, or other details much quicker.
WhatsApp has also made other search changes on iPhone recently. The company has worked on better search filters, recent searches, and search tools for older Channel posts.
The new in-chat search shortcut remains under development and is not available to regular users. WhatsApp has not shared a public release date for the feature. The company could also make changes before releasing it more widely.
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