News in Short
- WhatsApp Smart Text Actions reportedly detects phone numbers, dates, times, email addresses and locations in chats.
- Users can long-press highlighted text to access relevant shortcuts.
- The feature works with incoming and outgoing messages on Android and iOS.
- The rollout is gradual and currently limited to select users with the latest app versions.
WhatsApp is reportedly rolling out Smart Text Actions, a feature designed to make everyday tasks easier from within chats. It recognises useful details in messages and presents shortcuts for acting on them without manually copying information between apps.
According to a report by WABetaInfo, the feature is available to select users running the latest WhatsApp versions on Android and iOS. WhatsApp has not officially announced the rollout yet, so availability may vary by account and device.
How WhatsApp Smart Text Actions works
When WhatsApp detects supported information, it reportedly places a dotted underline beneath the text. Users can tap or long-press the highlighted detail to open a pop-up menu with relevant actions. The menu also displays the detected text, helping users check that the app has identified it correctly.
The feature reportedly works with both incoming and outgoing messages in individual and group chats. Users can ignore the underline and continue messaging as usual. Smart Text Actions therefore adds optional shortcuts rather than changing how conversations work.
What actions can users take?
For phone numbers, the menu can offer options to copy the number, add it to contacts or call it. When WhatsApp detects a date or time, users may copy the detail, add it to their device calendar or create an event.
Recognised addresses can open in a maps app for navigation. Email addresses can launch the default email app, allowing users to start composing a message. The available actions depend on the type of information WhatsApp detects.
Some of these tasks were already possible through existing options. However, Smart Text Actions reportedly groups them in a single, context-aware menu. The feature may also ask users for feedback after they select an action, including whether the suggested shortcut was useful.
Smart Text Actions rollout remains limited
WhatsApp has not shared a timeline for a wider release. The reported rollout is gradual, and installing the latest version may not immediately enable the feature for everyone. Users can check their app updates, but there is no confirmed setting to switch Smart Text Actions on manually.
The feature could be useful for people who frequently receive meeting details, contact information or addresses through chats. It reduces a few steps while keeping the original message available for reference.
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