WhatsApp Adds Group Chat History for New Members
WhatsApp has begun rolling out a new feature that allows users joining a group chat to view selected messages shared before they were added, addressing a long-standing request from users.
The update, known as Group Message History, enables group admins and members to share between 25 and 100 of the most recent messages with newly added participants. The feature is designed to help newcomers quickly understand the context of ongoing discussions without relying on explanations or screenshots from other members.
When adding someone to a group, users will now see a “Send messages” option, allowing them to choose how many recent messages to share – 25, 50, 75 or 100. Group administrators retain full control and can disable the feature at any time.
According to WhatsApp, the message cap was set to ensure new members receive only the most relevant context while keeping the process transparent. Once older messages are shared, all group members receive a notification showing who shared the messages, along with timestamps and a prompt to view the content.
The company said the feature does not compromise privacy, stressing that shared group messages remain protected by end-to-end encryption.
The rollout comes amid recent scrutiny of WhatsApp’s encryption practices following a lawsuit alleging that parent company Meta employees could access private messages. Meta has strongly denied the claim, maintaining that user messages remain secure.
WhatsApp said the Group Message History feature will be released gradually, advising users to keep their apps updated. The update follows recent improvements to group chats, including the introduction of member tags that allow users to add short descriptions beneath their names.
