
New Delhi, March 27 Meta-owned messaging platform WhatsApp announced a series of new features on Friday, allowing Apple iPhone users to operate two accounts on a single device simultaneously, while also introducing new artificial intelligence (AI) tools for photo editing and drafting messages.
The 'two accounts, one phone' feature, which was previously available only to Android users, is now being rolled out on iOS.
In a blog post, the company said that the update eliminates the need for users to carry two separate devices to manage personal and work conversations. Users will be able to identify the active account via a profile picture visible in the app's bottom tab.
Capitalizing on the generative AI trend, WhatsApp is also integrating Meta AI directly into chats. Users can now use Meta AI to enhance photos, remove distracting elements, swap backgrounds, or apply different styles before sending an image.
Additionally, an 'AI Writing Help' feature will now draft suggested responses based on the context of the conversation.
Addressing potential security concerns regarding the AI tool, WhatsApp emphasised that user chats will remain "completely private".
The company noted that the Meta AI features may not be immediately available to all users.
The update also simplifies cross-platform chat transfers. The platform now officially supports moving chat history, including photos and videos, from iOS to Android devices.
Other additions include predictive sticker suggestions, allowing users to swap an emoji for a suggested sticker as they type.
The new features are being rolled out and will soon be available to everyone, WhatsApp said.