WhatsApp is testing a new feature to alleviate confusion, especially in large groups: threads. This feature, available to beta users, improves the clarity of group chats.

WhatsApp is adding threads to group chats

The new system features a small reply indicator added to message bubbles. This indicator shows the number of replies to the message. Tapping the indicator opens a dedicated thread where all replies are listed chronologically.

When a reply is made to a message within a thread, a label is added to indicate that the reply belongs to a previous message. This labeling makes it clearer which reply belongs to which message in conversations where multiple topics are being discussed simultaneously.

These new features prevent the context of a conversation from being lost. Threads not only maintain order but also allow later participants to easily follow the discussion.

Users can see all replies related to a single message on a single screen. This reduces misunderstandings and keeps the conversation flowing smoothly. This feature will be particularly useful in community groups, where hundreds of messages accumulate.

This move demonstrates WhatsApp’s efforts to make not only individual messaging but also group communication more efficient. This feature significantly reduces the clutter of messages often experienced at work, at school, or in large groups of friends.

The reply indicator, placed in the message bubble, serves as both a visual counter and a quick access point to the thread. Users can see the number of replies with a single tap and can review the conversation in an organized manner by opening the thread. This reduces misunderstandings and improves communication in group chats.