WhatsApp is rumoured to be developing a new ability for users to create groups within group chats.
According to insider reports, the major change could shake up group chats used for work, school or even as a secret place for side chats and gossip with friends or family.
The new feature is set to keep pace with other chat apps like Slack, which is used for work, and Discord, a messaging app typically used by gamers.
Smaller groups within bigger group chats could be useful as breakout rooms for work. Community groups could split into distinct chats regarding issues like litter or parking.
Likewise, the new function could split family group chats into separate ones for siblings or extended family.
According to reports from the Sun Online, clues about the new feature were first revealed in October, by tech site XDA Developers.
Plus, WhatsApp sleuths at WABetaInfo have now uncovered a preview showcasing what the feature would mean for users.
While the preview gives a hint into what is to come, it doesn’t make it clear exactly what the feature will do.
"This name could mean anything," WABetaInfo said.
"But a Community is a new place where Group admins have more control over Groups on WhatsApp.
"Mainly to group other Groups easily."
It’s likely the feature will be tested in the beta version of WhatsApp first, but it could take weeks or months, or even years for the feature to roll out to the general public.
XDA Developers have warned that waiting for this feature could be a timely exercise.
"With the speed of feature introduction on WhatsApp, it could also take years before this feature comes to a stable release," the group previously said.
On the flipside, some WhatApp features never make it past testing if they don’t work as intended.
WhatsApp is also thought to be testing a feature that lets you use the app on multiple devices.
The messaging app has lost many users over the last year due to ongoing privacy concerns around its new terms of service.
WhatsApp has traditionally marketed itself on offering secure, encrypted messaging, but announced wildly unpopular changes to the way it handles user data.
These changes would have seen user data handed to private companies to aid in marketing.
WhatsApp U-turned drastically on the plans following a major backlash which has seen competitors Telegram surpass one billion downloads.
These changes would have seen user data handed to private companies to aid in marketing.
It seems big tech companies are closing in on anyone who doesn't want to buy the latest kit every year.
Google announced it plans to completely end sign-in support for older Android devices this month.
That means anyone with a device older than Android 2.3.7 will no longer be able to access basic Google services that make their phones functional.
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