WhatsApp is working on adding threads to messages, which will potentially add both nuance and complexity to conversations.
As spotted on WABetaInfo , the latest beta version of the WhatsApp Android app contains a feature that will enable you to organise message replies into threaded conversations.
How will WhatsApp threads work?
WhatsApp’s implementation builds on top of the existing Reply system. As regular WhatsApp users will know, it’s possible to reply to individual messages, which quotes the original message at the top of the reply.
It seems WhatsApp’s thread system automatically organises all such replies to a particular message into a separate conversation view.
WABetaInfo
Reason for caution
Anyone who uses a direct messaging service like Slack will be familiar with the ability to add separate threaded replies to specific messages rather than simply adding to a long, linear conversation.
It’s a handy way to side-bar on specific topics without disrupting the overall conversation.
However, as Slack users will also know, such a thread system also adds complexity and visual clutter to conversations – two things that aren’t ideal on tiny smartphones like the Samsung Galaxy S25 .
WhatsApp threads are looking promising
Conceptually, at least, WhatsApp’s approach seems to be a lot cleaner. Crucially, it shouldn’t fundamentally change the look or feel of your basic WhatsApp chats.
From the screenshot and description provided (see above), it seems as if the function will be there for those who know how to use it without adding any clutter to conversations.
This new WhatsApp feature is listed as being under development, so it won’t be made available for testing until a future update. It would be a massive change to the way that WhatsApp operates, so we hope that the company sticks the landing.
Samsung Galaxy S25
Author: Jon Mundy, Contributor, Tech Advisor
Jon is a freelance journalist who got his start covering mobile games at the dawn of the App Store. He has since covered everything from smart home tech and laptops to food and culture, but always seems to return to his fascination with smartphones.
Recent stories by Jon Mundy:
- A future Gemini update could unlock a world of possibilities, but will you trust it?
- Samsung’s One UI 8.5 update could be even bigger than we thought
- 7 new Android 16 features that are coming in major free upgrade
