WhatsApp is rolling out a new Contacts tab to select Android beta users, introducing a dedicated section that makes it easier to find, organize, and manage contacts on the messaging platform. The feature replaces the Communities tab in the bottom navigation bar during the initial testing phase.
The update is part of WhatsApp's ongoing efforts to simplify navigation and improve access to frequently used features. It will let users browse saved contacts, check who is online, and start conversations without navigating through the Chats section.
According to WABetaInfo, the new Contacts tab is available with WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.26.45.2, distributed through the Google Play Store.
The section shows users' favorite contacts at the top, followed by the full contact list. Users can organize their contacts in three ways: alphabetical order, birthdays, and activity.
The activity option places online contacts at the top of the list and identifies them with a green dot. Contacts who are offline are arranged according to their last seen information. However, online and last seen details will only appear according to the privacy settings shared by individual contacts.
WhatsApp is also adding a floating action button that allows users to save new contacts directly from the dedicated tab. The contact form includes fields for first name, last name, username, and phone number.
Users can also sync newly added contacts with their phone's address book. However, only contacts saved with a phone number can sync to the device.
The bottom section of the tab includes a shortcut to open conversations with Meta AI. WhatsApp has also added options to share invitation links through other applications and invite Instagram followers to connect on WhatsApp.
Also Read: WhatsApp Adds Message Scheduling in Beta: Key Features, Limitations Explained
The new feature is currently reaching select users enrolled in the Google Play beta program. WhatsApp expects to expand availability to more beta testers in the coming weeks.
The company has not announced when the redesigned Contacts tab will become available to all Android users. The final interface may also vary depending on the account and other features being tested.