WhatsApp channel users can now search old videos and GIFs: WhatsApp is rolling out a new feature that’s all geared up to make content browsing faster and easier for users. The new update makes it easier to access photos, videos, GIFs, and links shared in channels. The feature is being rolled out to beta users currently, and it should enhance navigation and content discovery in WhatsApp channels by a great extent.
Media and Links Now Easier to Browse
WhatsApp has added an iOS feature to browse all media and links that have been shared in channels. The feature, first observed in WhatsApp Beta for Android version 2.25.13.2, has now made its way to iOS as well. As per WABetaInfo, the feature has shown up in WhatsApp Beta for iOS 25.12.10.71 through TestFlight. Screenshots that were shared indicate a separate section for media and links in the channel.
Skip Channel History Scrolling
With this feature, users don’t have to scroll through the history of an entire channel to look for previous media or links. The beta testers have a special media and links section available to them, which makes it easier to scroll through previously shared photos, videos, GIFs, and URLs. This structure is similar to what users currently see in individual and group conversations and gives them an organized display of all the shared content.
A Handy Resource for Creators and Followers
Access to the new section is now available from the channel information page by followers as well as admins. Therefore, creators can easily manage and refer to posted material better, whereas followers can reverse and access necessary media conveniently. The tool obviates having to remember terms or searching oneself, spending effort and time and instead employs a chronological and categorical format.
No More Scroll Through Unwanted Updates
With the new categorized tabs, users are now able to sift through precisely what they’re looking for without wasting time on irrelevant updates. Every form of shared content—photos, videos, GIFs, and links—is neatly categorized into its own section. This simplifies navigation and enhances the user experience throughout the app. The feature is currently in beta but will be rolled out to all users once testing is finished.
Expected Global Rollout Following Beta Testing
As the feature is already open to beta testers, its general release will then follow once it passes testing. With its use, all users worldwide can anticipate the update in future stable app releases. WhatsApp’s decision to enhance content discovery in channels indicates its continued emphasis on the convenience of users.
Increasing WhatsApp Channel Engagement
With the launch of structured browsing within channels, user interaction will pick up. Finding and reusing media that was previously shared becomes easier, which allows creators to ensure consistency of content while also enabling followers to look up valuable posts at any time. This creates value for both personal and business use cases on WhatsApp Channels.