7 WhatsApp Features I’d Love to See Removed Forever

Every time WhatsApp rolls out an update, it introduces a host of new features. While some additions are undoubtedly beneficial, many seem unnecessary and merely add to the chaos. Let’s take a look at seven WhatsApp features that I believe should be reconsidered.

1 WhatsApp Statuses

Initially made famous by platforms such as Snapchat and Instagram, stories allow users to share photos and videos that disappear after a day. So when WhatsApp launched its own version called Status, it felt unnecessary.

Is another channel for temporary content really needed? If I want to keep up with daily updates, I already have social media platforms that specialize in that.

For me, the primary purpose of WhatsApp is to communicate with family and friends, not to sift through an endless stream of fleeting updates that I’ve likely already seen elsewhere.

It would be refreshing if WhatsApp took a step back and returned to its roots as a straightforward messaging app, devoid of the distractions that come with the Status feature. Until that happens, I will continue to find ways to block this feature on my phone.

2 Instant Video Messages

While I genuinely appreciate voice messaging on WhatsApp for quick updates, the introduction of instant video messages in 2023 feels largely redundant. Though video can convey emotion and tone, I find it awkward to use.

Recording video messages might be quick, but I often catch myself worrying about my appearance while filming, which detracts from the message itself.

The essence of messaging is its simplicity, and Instant Video Messages complicate that. That’s why I tend to stick with voice notes or typing my messages instead.

3 Channels

WhatsApp Channels were designed to create a one-way communication path from creators, brands, or influencers to their followers. My concern is that this shifts WhatsApp closer to a social media model, which I find unappealing. I don’t want to scroll through repeated posts that I can find on other platforms.

Even though Channels are separated from my personal chats and notifications, they still feel intrusive. I wish WhatsApp would eliminate this feature and refocus on its messaging capabilities.

4 Communities

The idea behind WhatsApp Communities is to group various chats under one umbrella, but this often creates confusion rather than clarity.

Navigating multiple groups within a single community becomes tedious, especially with overlapping discussions and constant notifications. I’d prefer WhatsApp to enhance existing group functions instead of adding complexity.

5 Avatars

While the introduction of Avatars makes sense on Facebook and Instagram, in a messaging app like WhatsApp, they seem unnecessary.

On social media, where personal branding is more common, avatars can enhance interaction. However, in a more personal messaging context, I don’t feel the need for an animated version of myself to communicate effectively.

It feels as though WhatsApp is simply jumping on social media trends when it could better focus on streamlining its core messaging features.

6 Catalogs and In-Chat Shopping

WhatsApp’s catalog feature allows businesses to showcase products on their profiles, yet it feels a bit out of place in a messaging app.

Although shopping through a messaging app might be convenient for some, it seems to dilute WhatsApp’s primary messaging function. It feels like WhatsApp is trying to cater to everyone, potentially losing what made it popular in the first place.

7 Payment Integration

To complement the shopping experience, WhatsApp has rolled out a payment integration feature that allows users to send money to registered businesses and friends. However, I find this feature concerning.

The prospect of using WhatsApp for financial transactions raises issues about security and privacy. I’d much rather utilize dedicated services designed specifically for handling such sensitive information.

WhatsApp began as a simple messaging app, and its charm lies in that simplicity. Unfortunately, it now feels overcrowded with features that aren’t necessary for effective communication. I hope WhatsApp will reconsider and potentially remove some of these extraneous features in the future.