WhatsApp will soon let you mute a contact or a group chat for eternity, taking over the option to shut them up for a year.
At the moment, users are only able to mute someone for eight hours, one week or one year. But according to prolific WhatsApp-watching blog WABetaInfo, the app is working on an indefinite mute option.
According to the site, the option to mute contacts forever (instead of a year) is available in version 2.20.201.10 of the app.
Initially, only those signed up to the beta program will be able to take advantage.. But this is a sure sign the option will eventually roll out to WhatsApp’s 2+ billion users.
Updating the app is usually handled automatically, but you can check in your phone’s app store for any updates manually.
Aside from letting us all mute contacts forever, WhatsApp has also been working with Watford Borough Council to train various small businesses on using the WhatsApp Business app during the coronavirus pandemic.
‘The initiative will support small businesses in Watford to help them promote their businesses on the WhatsApp Business app, and help them to connect easily with their customers at this difficult time,’ WhatsApp said in a statement.
‘The initiative will provide the businesses with free-to-use digital tools from WhatsApp to help them manage the many challenges and customer questions presented by the pandemic, such as lockdowns, curfews and social distancing measures, which are threatening the livelihoods of our high streets.’
Features of the WhatsApp Business app (which boasts over 50 million users) include the option to make a business profile and catalogue of products and services. As well as, obviously, a way to securely and quickly chat with customers.
‘I’m delighted a global brand like WhatsApp has chosen to work with us on this initiative, which is the first of its kind in the UK,’ said Elected Mayor Peter Taylor from Watford Borough Council.
‘Local businesses are vital to our economy, bringing jobs and so much character to our town. We are committed to working with them to ensure Watford’s economy succeeds as we open up after a difficult period of lockdown.
‘Digital skills and new technology are at the heart of our plans for the borough, which is why we are helping local businesses to adapt to the new circumstances we find ourselves in.’
