WhatsApp tests feature to separate business chats, reduce spam

CALIFORNIA (Web Desk): WhatsApp is developing a new feature for Android users that will automatically organize chat lists by separating business messages into a dedicated section, aiming to reduce clutter from promotional content.

According to reports from WABetaInfo, the feature has been spotted in beta version 2.26.15.9 available on the Google Play Store, indicating ongoing development ahead of a wider rollout.

The upcoming update will specifically target business accounts that use cloud-based messaging services for automated communication. Under the new system, such chats will remain visible in the main chat list for up to 24 hours to ensure users do not miss time-sensitive information, including delivery updates and purchase receipts.

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After this period, business conversations will be automatically moved out of the primary chat feed into a separate section. While the exact interface is yet to be confirmed, reports suggest it may function similarly to the archived chats folder or appear as a distinct inbox.

The feature is designed to help users prioritize personal conversations by reducing the need for manual sorting. The growing volume of automated marketing messages has been a key concern for many users, often disrupting normal app navigation.

Owned by Meta, WhatsApp is expected to test the feature with a limited group of beta users before making it publicly available.