Millions of WhatsApp users across the United Kingdom are set to benefit from a significant update, with seven new features now being rolled out for both iPhone and Android devices. The popular messaging app, owned by Meta, confirmed the changes on 21 December 2025.
Breaking Down Language Barriers and Enhancing Sharing
In a statement, WhatsApp explained its commitment to keeping users connected globally. "We're always working to keep our users closely connected, no matter where they are in the world," a spokesperson said. "But we understand that sometimes language can be a barrier... That's why we're excited to bring message translations to WhatsApp." This feature aims to facilitate smoother cross-language communication.
Another major enhancement focuses on sharing richer media. Users can now send Live Photos from iOS and Motion Photos from Android directly within chats. This means moments can be shared with sound and movement intact, making exchanges more dynamic across platforms.
AI-Powered Customisation Takes Centre Stage
A key theme of this update is the integration of Meta AI to boost personalisation. Users can now harness AI to create completely custom Chat Themes, moving beyond the pre-set options to reflect their unique style.
The AI creativity extends to video calls and media. You can generate unique, AI-crafted backgrounds for video calls, placing yourself in a favourite virtual setting. Furthermore, this AI background feature is now available when taking photos and videos directly within chats, adding a new layer of fun and privacy.
Practical Improvements for Everyday Use
Beyond AI, the update introduces several practical tools. Three new sticker packs—Fearless Bird, School Days, and Vacation—offer fresh ways to express emotions without typing a word.
Finding group chats is also becoming simpler. If you struggle to recall a creatively named group, you can now search for a known member in your Chats tab, and WhatsApp will display the groups you share with them.
Finally, a significant productivity boost arrives for Android users: a new document scanning feature. This allows you to scan, crop, save, and send physical documents directly from within the WhatsApp application, streamlining tasks that previously required separate software.
This suite of seven updates underscores WhatsApp's ongoing evolution from a simple messaging service into a more versatile, AI-enhanced communication hub for its vast user base in the UK and worldwide.
