Think you know WhatsApp inside out? Think again. Behind its simple green interface lies a treasure trove of hidden features and handy tricks that can save you time, boost your privacy and make chatting more fun. From sending private replies in group chats to sharing your live location, here are 10 tips to help you truly master WhatsApp in 2025.

Chat with ChatGPT directly in WhatsApp

Yes, AI has joined the party. By adding ChatGPT’s dedicated number to your contacts, you can chat with it directly inside WhatsApp. Ask questions, get text responses, and even send it images to analyse. It’s like having a clever friend on standby, minus the small talk.

Transcribe voice messages on the fly

For iPhone users, WhatsApp now offers voice message transcription. Ideal when you can’t play a voice note out loud, this feature turns it into text in seconds. Android support is expected soon, so stay tuned.

Add fun effects to video calls

Bored of your own face during a video call? Use the magic wand icon to apply visual effects, background tweaks or filters to liven things up.

Log in with your email or a passkey

If SMS codes keep failing, you can now link your email to receive verification codes instead. Better yet, set up a passkey for future logins. Once enabled, you’ll sign in with biometric authentication rather than endlessly typing codes.

Use WhatsApp on multiple phones

Need the app on a second device? Simply connect your existing account to another phone by scanning a QR code from your primary device. One account, multiple smartphones – perfect for work-life juggling.

Lock private conversations

Some chats aren’t for prying eyes. WhatsApp now lets you lock individual conversations, which then appear in a hidden folder requiring Face ID, Touch ID or your device’s biometrics to open.

Send video messages and share high-quality media

Short video snippets can now be sent as easily as voice notes. And if your photos deserve better than grainy compression, tap the HD icon to send them in higher quality.

Share your screen or live location

Whether helping a relative fix their phone or letting friends follow your solo hike, WhatsApp can now share your smartphone screen or your live location securely for a set period.

Use WhatsApp as your personal notebook

Ever send yourself a quick message so you won’t forget something? WhatsApp now makes it official: open a new chat with yourself and use it as a private reminder list.

Boost privacy and control notifications

Hide message previews on your lock screen, disable read receipts, and restrict who can add you to groups. You can also personalise notification sounds per contact so you know who’s messaging without checking your phone.

Customise chats and organise messages

Pin favourite conversations to the top, star important messages for later, and even create broadcast lists to send the same note to multiple people individually – no messy group chat required. You can also edit images before sending, change wallpapers for chats, and switch to dark mode to save your eyes and your battery.

With these 10 tricks, WhatsApp turns from a simple messaging app into a versatile, privacy-friendly, and surprisingly fun communication hub. Try a few today and watch your chats feel instantly smarter.