WhatsApp is testing a long-requested feature designed to help new group members catch up more quickly. The update allows groups to choose whether to share recent messages when someone joins, rather than starting them at a blank chat.
According to WABetaInfo, a new WhatsApp beta on TestFlight introduces an option to share recent chat history with a newly added member. Group admins or members can share “up to 100 recent messages” from the past 14 days. Additionally, users can opt to share fewer messages for tighter control. These shared messages are displayed in a different color, helping new members easily identify what was sent before they joined and reducing potential confusion.
WABetaInfo also highlights a transparency measure implemented with this feature. WhatsApp posts a system message in the group chat indicating who shared the messages with the new member. The transfer occurs using the sender’s device and encryption key, ensuring that the messages remain protected by end-to-end encryption.
Currently, this feature is limited to select beta testers on iOS and Android. WhatsApp has not announced an official release date, but ongoing testing on both platforms suggests a wider rollout may be imminent.