Topic
messaging
Technology WhatsApp tests 'Offers & Updates' folder to declutter business chats
WhatsApp is testing a new 'Offers & Updates' folder that automatically moves messages from large businesses such as banks and airlines into a separate chat folder after a predefined period of up to 24 hours, according to a GSM Arena report carried by ANI. Users can disable the feature but cannot set custom timing. The feature currently applies only to large businesses, with an extension to small businesses under exploration.
Technology WhatsApp Launches Browser-Based Web Calling with Call Transfer and Waiting Room
Meta-owned WhatsApp launched browser-based web calling, allowing users to make and receive audio and video calls directly from their browsers without a desktop app. The update also introduces call transfer between devices, a waiting room for call links with host approval, and audio/video enhancements including QuickHD and noise suppression. The features are rolling out gradually.
Technology India Fuels Bitchat's Global Rise Despite Government Takedown Order
Bitchat, the internet-free messaging app founded by Jack Dorsey, has seen explosive growth in India despite a government order to remove its source code from GitHub. New data from Appfigures shows India accounted for 53% of the app's global downloads, with daily installs surging from 291 to over 28,000 in a week. The Internet Freedom Foundation has criticised the takedown order as unconstitutional.
Technology 9 Google Chat Tips to Boost Enterprise Communication and Productivity
Google Chat offers enterprise teams powerful collaboration features beyond basic messaging. This guide covers 9 tips including Spaces, threaded chats, message scheduling, and tight integration with Google Workspace apps.
Technology WhatsApp Submits Reply on 'Username' Notice; Government Examining Response, Sources Say
Meta-owned WhatsApp has submitted its reply to the Indian government's notice on the proposed username feature, which raised concerns about increased cybercrime. The government is now reviewing the response, while the username feature remains on hold in India. Similar notices were sent to Telegram and Signal.
Technology Zoho's Arattai Disables Username Feature to Comply with Indian Government Directive Amid WhatsApp Scrutiny
Zoho-owned messaging app Arattai has disabled its username feature to comply with a regulatory change, following the Indian government's notice to WhatsApp, Signal, and Telegram directing them not to roll out username features until consultation. The Internet Freedom Foundation has questioned the legal basis of the government's action.
Technology WhatsApp to Let People Chat with Usernames Without Revealing Phone Numbers
WhatsApp is introducing usernames, allowing users to chat without sharing phone numbers. The feature rolls out over months; users can reserve a name now. Privacy experts warn about Meta's data collection despite end-to-end encryption.
Technology WhatsApp Usernames Arrive This Week: How to Reserve Yours and Protect Privacy
WhatsApp begins rolling out usernames globally this week, allowing users to connect without sharing phone numbers. The feature, designed with privacy in mind, includes optional four-digit PIN security and protects celebrity names. Reservation opens in the Settings > Account > Username tab.
Business Kunal Shah: Indian Fintech Founder Appointed to Lead WhatsApp After Meta's $900m Cred Investment
Meta has appointed Kunal Shah, founder of Indian fintech start-up Cred, as the new head of WhatsApp. The appointment follows Meta's $900m investment in Cred and comes as WhatsApp seeks to expand beyond messaging into payments, business services, and AI. Shah, who built FreeCharge and Cred, brings deep startup ecosystem experience.
Technology Google restores Telegram on Playstore after temporary government ban ends
Google restored the Telegram messaging app on the Playstore on Tuesday morning after a temporary government ban expired at midnight on June 22. The ban was imposed over Telegram's failure to prevent the circulation of fake NEET examination papers. Telegram remains unavailable on Apple's Appstore as of 10 am.
Technology Telegram Blocked in India for NEET Exam, But Remains Accessible via VPN
Telegram has stopped working for existing users in India after the government ordered its temporary restriction ahead of the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination. The app continues to function via VPN. Industry experts and Telegram's CEO have criticised the move, with Durov alleging lobbying by Reliance Group and WhatsApp.
Technology Malaysia's AI Agent-Powered Messaging Platform Respond.io Raises $62.5M, Targets Acquisitions
Respond.io, a Malaysian AI-powered customer conversation management platform, has raised $62.5M in Series B funding led by Camber Partners. The company has grown to $35M in annual recurring revenue with 169% year-over-year growth and a 30% profit margin. It plans to use the capital for hiring, organic growth, and acquisitions in North America and Europe.