whatsapp Beta Rolls Out “Wave” Greeting for New Chats, Aiming for Warmer First Impressions
San Francisco, CA – WhatsApp is testing a new feature designed to make initiating conversations in new chats a more welcoming experience. Spotted in the latest beta update for Android, the “wave” greeting aims to simplify the often-awkward first message to a new contact.
The functionality, first observed by Wabetainfo, presents users with a prominent “wave” button when they open a chat with someone they haven’t messaged before. This gesture is intended to provide a friendly and positive icebreaker, ensuring that initial communication doesn’t feel abrupt or out of the blue. The goal is to foster a more pleasant start to conversations, especially with contacts who may be unfamiliar.
Currently,this “wave” feature is exclusive to users enrolled in the whatsapp beta program on Android devices.There is no option to customize the emoji,gesture,or skin tone at this stage,as WhatsApp is focusing on establishing a universally positive atmosphere with this update.
The rollout of this feature is limited to beta testers,and it remains to be seen when,or if,it will be made available to the wider WhatsApp user base.
