If you’ve not updated your WhatsApp chat app in a while now is a good time to hit the download button.
Love WhatsApp but haven’t checked for the latest updates in a while? You should head to your settings immediately and make sure things are fully up to date this week or you’ll miss out on a feature-packed free update from the Meta-owned service.
Just in time for the millions of messages that get sent across its platform during the New Year festivities, WhatsApp has released a celebration upgrade that offers some fun new ways to stay in touch with friends and family.
There are a trio of changes in the update, including some unique effects to get the party started. That means when you’re making a video call to say “hi” and “Happpy New Year!”, you can now add new things such as festive backgrounds, party filters and sprinkinglings of confetti.
If someone sends you a message, there are more ways to react, including adding part poppers, champagne and glasses.
Finally there’s the addition of a New Year’s Eve sticker pack and avatar stickers designed especially for the New Year.
WhatsApp has confirmed that the update is available now but won’t stay on devices for long.
“To celebrate the new year on WhatsApp, we’re excited to surprise users with some fun features to enjoy when chatting or calling with friends and family. These limited-time features will be available starting tomorrow 20th December to 3rd January, adding a little extra excitement to holiday conversations.”
To make sure you have the latest version of WhatsApp on your device, follow the instructions below.
To update apps on an Android device
• Open the Google Play Store app
• Tap your profile icon in the top right corner
• Tap Manage apps and device
• Tap Manage
• Find the app you want to update
• Tap the app to open its Details page and turn on Enable auto update
How to update apps manually on your iPhone or iPad
• Open the App Store.
• Tap the My Account button or your photo at the top of the screen.
• Scroll down to see pending updates and release notes. Tap Update next to an app to only update that app, or tap Update All.