WhatsApp Business is upgrading its features with the newest beta release for Android, version 2.24.26.16. This update, which can be accessed through the Google Play Beta Program, introduces AI-assisted replies and a connection to the business platform, as well as updated theme colors enhancing the user experience.
The latest update refreshes both the light and dark themes, replacing the previous light blue accents with black for the light theme and white for the dark theme. These adjustments help align the Android version of the app with recent updates on iOS, making it easier to distinguish between WhatsApp Messenger and WhatsApp Business.
The standout feature of this release is the integration of AI-powered responses. Businesses can now utilize AI to reply to customer inquiries, especially when human staff members are unavailable. This AI can effectively handle frequently asked questions, guide customers through the purchasing journey, and address complex inquiries using tailored machine learning models that suit the specific business needs.
Photo: WABetaInfo
To promote transparency, users will receive notifications when they interact with the AI system. This feature not only boosts user engagement but also fosters trust by keeping customers informed about the AI’s role in real-time. Furthermore, businesses can customize the AI’s responses to reflect their brand voice, ensuring a cohesive customer experience.
Another significant addition in this update is the business platform connection. This feature addresses a crucial challenge faced by users administering accounts on the WhatsApp Business Platform. Businesses can now simply scan a QR code to link their accounts directly to the WhatsApp Business app, offering access to features that were previously inaccessible.
A notable capability of this update is the option to share chat histories of up to six months for one-on-one interactions, which ensures a smooth transition to the new system. However, group chat histories will not be included. Meta will securely manage all activities under this service, providing notifications to users for added transparency.
At present, these features are available to a select group of beta testers, with plans for wider accessibility in the coming weeks. Users are encouraged to update to the latest beta version to take advantage of these exciting new tools.
