WhatsApp 2025 features: All the new updates and how to use them

WhatsApp 2025 features are the latest upgrades that enhance how you communicate on the platform.

WhatsApp rolled out a wave of game‑changing features in late 2025. From built‑in message translation to AI‑generated chat themes and smarter group notifications, these updates make communicating easier and more fun. This guide explains each new feature and shows you how to use it.

WhatsApp 2025 features overview

Built‑in message translation

WhatsApp now includes a Translate option directly inside chats, so you no longer need a separate app to understand messages in another language. To translate any message:

• Long‑press the message you want to translate.
• Tap More options …, then choose Translate.
• The app will instantly display the translation below the original message【874641635647273†L415-L425】.

This built‑in translator makes cross‑language conversations effortless【874641635647273†L415-L425】.

AI‑powered chat themes

With the new AI chat theme tool, you can customize any conversation with backgrounds generated from text prompts. For example, type “sunset beach” or “retro arcade”, and WhatsApp’s AI creates a matching theme【874641635647273†L427-L437】. To try it:

• Open a chat and tap the Wallpaper or Theme option.
• Choose AI Theme and enter a prompt describing the scene you want.
• Select the generated theme that you like, then apply it to the chat.

You can change themes as often as you like to match your mood or conversation. For more AI‑powered messaging, check our guide on WhatsApp AI Replies 2025 (internal link).

Live and motion photos support

WhatsApp now supports short animated images natively. iPhone users can send Live Photos, and Android users can send Motion Photos, which animate when pressed【874641635647273†L443-L453】. To send one:

• Open your camera roll and select a Live or Motion photo.
• Tap Send. The photo will automatically animate for your recipient【874641635647273†L443-L453】.
• Press and hold the photo in the chat to replay the animation.

This feature adds life to memories you share. Keep in mind that both sender and receiver need updated versions of WhatsApp to view the animations.

Smarter group notifications

Managing group chats is easier thanks to refined notifications. You can choose to be alerted only when you’re mentioned or when a specific person replies【874641635647273†L455-L466】. There’s also a real‑time indicator showing which members are active in the chat【874641635647273†L455-L466】. To customize alerts:

• Open the group chat and tap its name at the top.
• Select Notifications and choose Mentions only, Replies from specific contacts or All messages.
• Watch for the active‑members indicator at the top of the chat to see who’s online.

These settings help reduce notification fatigue while ensuring you don’t miss important messages.

Animated and avatar stickers

WhatsApp’s sticker tool has been upgraded. You can now convert short video clips into looping stickers and create avatar‑based reactions【874641635647273†L468-L478】. Here’s how:

• Tap the emoji icon in the chat bar and select the Stickers tab.
• Choose Create sticker and select a video clip or selfie.
• Edit the clip if needed, then save it as a sticker for reuse【874641635647273†L468-L478】.
• For avatar stickers, create your digital avatar in WhatsApp and then use the available expressions to react in chats.

Stickers add personality to your conversations, whether you’re sending a funny clip or a custom avatar expression.

Extra tips for privacy and productivity

While exploring WhatsApp’s new features, remember to keep your accounts secure. For broader social‑media security, see our guide on enabling Facebook two‑factor authentication (internal link). If you’re using TikTok as well, check out our article on how to go viral on TikTok in 2025 (internal link) to maximize your reach across platforms.

For a deeper dive into these updates, read Moneycontrol’s coverage of WhatsApp 2025 features.

Conclusion

WhatsApp 2025 features and updates make chatting smoother, more expressive and more secure. Built‑in translation lets you communicate across languages; AI themes personalize your chat environment; Live and Motion photos add motion to your memories; smarter group notifications keep you focused; and new sticker tools help you react creatively. Try these features today and enjoy a richer messaging experience.

Sources: The features described here are based on reports from Moneycontrol【874641635647273†L415-L478】 and other trusted tech news outlets. Always update WhatsApp to the latest version to access new tools.