WhatsApp New Feature Lets New Group Members See Recent Messages
WhatsApp Messenger is introducing a major new feature that changes how group chats work. With this update, new users joining a WhatsApp group will be able to view recent messages shared before they joined.
Until now, WhatsApp only allowed users to see messages sent after they became a group member. This new feature aims to help users better understand the context, purpose, and ongoing discussions inside a group.
What Is the WhatsApp Group Chat History Feature?
The group chat history feature allows existing group members to share recent messages with newly added users. According to reports from WABetaInfo, this feature is currently being rolled out through the TestFlight beta program on iOS.
The feature was previously tested on Android, and WhatsApp is now preparing to expand it to iPhone users as well.
How Many Messages Can New Members See?
As per available information:
New members can view up to 100 recent messages
Messages must be from the last 14 days
Shared messages are highlighted in a different color so users can easily identify older chats
This makes it easier for new members to quickly catch up on conversations without feeling lost.
How Does the Feature Work?
When adding a new participant to a WhatsApp group:
Tap on Add Member
A new option appears asking whether to share recent messages
Group admins or members can choose:
Share up to 100 recent messages
Or limit the shared history
By default, this option is turned off, meaning WhatsApp does not automatically send previous messages to new members.
Important Privacy Controls
WhatsApp prioritizes privacy with this update:
Users receive a warning message before sharing chat history
The warning appears up to three times
From the fourth confirmation onward, messages are shared instantly after approval
This ensures users are fully aware before sharing past conversations.
How Is This Different from Telegram and Slack?
Apps like Telegram and Slack already allow new members to see previous chats and shared files automatically. WhatsApp’s approach is more privacy-focused, giving users full control over whether chat history is shared.
Currently, this feature is not available in Communities or personal chats, only in selected group chats during beta testing.
SIM Card Requirement for WhatsApp Users
According to recent reports, WhatsApp services are expected to remain linked to active SIM cards. If the SIM card associated with a WhatsApp account is removed or inactive, app services may stop functioning. These rules are expected to come into effect soon, reinforcing account security and authenticity.
FAQs
Q1. Can new WhatsApp group members see old messages?
Yes, with the new update, new members can view up to 100 recent messages from the last 14 days, if the group allows it.
Q2. Is the chat history feature enabled by default?
No, the feature is disabled by default. Group members must manually choose to share recent messages.
Q3. Is this feature available on Android and iOS?
The feature was tested on Android and is now rolling out on iOS via TestFlight beta.
Q4. How is WhatsApp different from Telegram in this feature?
Telegram allows automatic access to past chats, while WhatsApp requires manual permission, offering better privacy control.
Q5. Will this feature be available for all users?
Yes, after beta testing, WhatsApp is expected to roll out this feature to all users globally.
Conclusion
WhatsApp’s new group chat history feature is a long-awaited update that makes group conversations more user-friendly without compromising privacy. By allowing controlled access to recent messages, WhatsApp bridges the gap between usability and security. Once rolled out globally, this feature will significantly improve the group chat experience for millions of users.
- - January 26, 2026
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