WhatsApp users can anticipate more visually appealing and functional chat conversations as the messaging platform is reportedly working on introducing advanced text formatting features. These include the incorporation of code blocks, text quotes, and bulleted lists to enrich the messaging experience.
WhatsApp’s Advancements in Text Formatting
The anticipated text formatting options were recently uncovered in a WhatsApp Desktop beta update. While these features are currently in the development stage, they are expected to eventually roll out on both Android and iOS platforms.
WhatsApp’s journey to introduce novel features has been a gradual one, and this latest development underscores the app’s endeavor to catch up with its competitors. The recent update to the WhatsApp Desktop beta hints at the implementation of more sophisticated text formatting choices.
According to insights from WABetaInfo, a reliable source tracking WhatsApp’s developments, Meta-owned WhatsApp is working on enhancing its text formatting capabilities. The upcoming features will allow users to incorporate syntax formatting, such as code blocks, text quotes, and bulleted lists. These additions will complement the existing suite of formatting tools within WhatsApp, which currently includes options like bold, italics, strikethrough, and monospace.
A Peek into the Formatting Evolution
In terms of accessibility, Android and iOS users can access these text formatting options by performing a prolonged press. However, on desktop platforms, specific special characters will be required for syntax-based formatting. For instance, to quote a part of a message, one can use the “>” symbol as a prefix to provide context without quoting the entire message. Similarly, enclosing text within apostrophes at both ends generates a code block, altering the text’s appearance within a designated container. Bulleted lists can be created by preceding text with a “-” symbol to craft individual list items.
While it remains uncertain whether WhatsApp will incorporate these formatting choices into the existing floating text toolbar, which houses fundamental formatting tools on mobile devices, there is a strong possibility that these advanced features will be introduced to WhatsApp on Android and iOS in future updates.
Although WhatsApp may lag behind its competitors in certain formatting aspects, such as numbered lists or spoiler tags, this progressive step in introducing additional features showcases the platform’s commitment to enhancing user experience. It’s reassuring to witness WhatsApp continuously unveiling new capabilities, even if it involves catching up with other messaging apps.
