WhatsApp: Hidden features you may not have noticed#
April 07, 2025
WhatsApp is updated regularly, adding new features that make the messenger more convenient and secure. However, not all users are aware of all the features and use the messenger to its full potential. In this article, we'll break down three useful features: checkmarks in messages, circles in the chat list, and secret chats, and tell you how businesses can automate their work with WhatsApp using the GREEN-API.
Check marks in messages: what do they mean?#
When you send a message in WhatsApp, checkmarks appear next to the message.What they mean:
A gray checkmark - the message has been sent but not yet delivered. Possible reasons: you don't have internet, the recipient has blocked you, or their phone is turned off.
Two gray check marks - the message has been delivered but not read.
Two blue check marks - the message was read by the recipient.
If you do not want the other person to see that you have read the message, you can turn off the Read reports feature in the privacy settings.
It is important for businesses to track the status of sent messages, especially when it comes to customer mailings. GREEN-API provides tools to automatically track the delivery status of messages and notifications, which helps companies analyze the effectiveness of their communications.
Circles in the chat list: what are they and how do I enable them?#
WhatsApp recently added small circles to chats. They show new status updates from contacts or pinned important conversations.
To enable this feature:
• Open WhatsApp and go to settings.
• Select "Chats".
• Check the "Show circles in chat list" option.
Now you can find new status updates and important chats faster!
WhatsApp secret chats: what is it and how to enable it?#
The secret chats feature allows you to hide your conversations from prying eyes. They are protected by a password or biometrics (Face ID/fingerprint) and do not appear in the general chat list.
To enable secret chats:
• Open WhatsApp and navigate to the chat you want.
• Tap the contact's name at the top of the screen.
• Select "Secret Chat" and follow the instructions to set up the protection.
• The chat will only be accessible from a special area.
Hidden messages: what are they and how do they work?#
WhatsApp offers a hidden messages feature, also known as disappearing messages. They are automatically deleted after a certain period of time, increasing the privacy of your correspondence.
How to enable disappearing messages:
• Open WhatsApp and select the chat you want.
• Tap the contact or group name at the top of the screen.
• Select "Disappearing messages".
• Set the delete timer: 24 hours, 7 days, or 90 days.
Once enabled, all new messages in that chat will automatically disappear after the selected time period. This feature works in both private chats and groups (if the administrator has allowed it). In addition, it is possible to send photos and videos with the possibility of one-time viewing, which disappear immediately after opening.
Conclusion#
Now you know how checkmarks work in messages, why you need circles, and how to hide conversations. If you want to automate communication with your customers, try GREEN-API - a reliable WhatsApp API provider for your business.
WhatsApp is constantly evolving, and it's good to keep an eye out for new chips that make communication more convenient and secure!