WhatsApp has begun rolling out a new reminder feature for unseen Status updates and unread messages, now available to Android users in its beta program. This feature has been in testing since September and is included in beta version 2.24.25.29 of WhatsApp for Android.
How the Reminder Feature Works
The selection of contacts for these reminders is determined by an internal algorithm. As reported by WABetaInfo, this algorithm prioritizes contacts with whom users interact most frequently. It’s important to note that the algorithm operates only within the current installation of WhatsApp. If the app is reinstalled, the algorithm recalculates the interactions, as this data is not stored on servers or included in backups.
While the feature is appreciated for its convenience, some users have noted that an additional option to manually select contacts for notifications would enhance its usefulness. It remains possible that WhatsApp will address this feedback in future updates before the feature is broadly released via the stable channel.
How to Access the Beta Feature
For Android users eager to try out this feature, enrolling in the WhatsApp beta program is an option. This allows early access to the feature while the stable version is being prepared for a wider release.
Then, turn reminder notifications on or off through the Settings > Notifications > Reminders menu. Once enabled, WhatsApp will send notifications for status updates and unread messages.