WhatsApp Introduces New ‘Mark All as Read’ Shortcut for Android Users

WhatsApp is rolling out a new feature that Android users have been eagerly anticipating: a shortcut to mark all chats as read with just a single tap. This update is designed to simplify message management, which previously required multiple steps and navigating through various menus.

A Simpler Way to Manage Messages

The new shortcut will be accessible in the overflow menu at the top right corner of the screen, located just below the "Starred messages" option. This allows users to mark all their messages as read without the need to open each conversation individually. According to WABetaInfo, a trusted source for WhatsApp updates, this feature is currently in the testing phase.

Availability and Beta Testing

The new "Mark All as Read" shortcut is included in the beta version of WhatsApp for Android, specifically in version 2.24.18.11. However, this means that the feature is not yet available to all Android users. Those who are part of the beta testing program through Google Play may also find that the feature isn't accessible yet, as it's still being gradually rolled out.

How the Shortcut Works

This shortcut is expected to function similarly to the existing "Mark Read" feature on iOS, where users can quickly change the status of all unread WhatsApp messages to read. By bringing this functionality to Android, WhatsApp aims to provide a more efficient way for users to manage their messages, especially when they have numerous unread chats.

Google's Gemini AI Chatbot Shortcut

In other tech developments, Google has also introduced a new shortcut for its Gemini AI chatbot, making it more accessible directly through the Google Chrome search bar. Previously, interacting with Gemini AI required a separate app or website, but now users can simply type "@" in the Chrome search bar, select "@gemini - Chat with Gemini," and start a conversation without leaving the browser.