How Upcoming WhatsApp ‘Threaded Message Replies’ For iOS Will Be a Big Boon for Group Chats

WhatsApp is set to introduce a powerful new feature for iOS users — ‘threaded message replies’ — and it could significantly transform the way we communicate in group chats. Currently being tested in beta, this upcoming feature allows users to directly respond to specific messages within a group chat using threaded replies, making conversations more organized and contextually clear.

Group chats on WhatsApp, especially those with dozens of participants, can quickly become chaotic. When multiple people are chatting at once, responses often get buried or misinterpreted due to the rapid pace of messages. With the new threaded replies, users can reply to a specific message in its own conversation thread, similar to how it works on platforms like Slack or Discord. This allows discussions to stay on topic and improves the overall flow of communication.

Unlike the existing quote reply feature, which pulls the original message into a new reply but continues it in the main chat stream, the threaded message feature opens a sub-conversation. This means replies to a specific message will appear as a collapsible thread, reducing clutter in the main chat view. Users can tap on a message to view all its related replies in one place, Whatapp helping to keep track of context more efficiently.

This is especially useful for workplace or community groups, where different topics are discussed simultaneously. For instance, in a project group, one thread can focus on deadlines, while another may focus on design suggestions. Participants can follow and contribute to only the conversations relevant to them, rather than scrolling through unrelated chatter.

From a usability perspective, threaded replies also enhance accessibility. Older users or those not fluent in rapid-text communication will benefit from clearer whatapp message tracking. Additionally, moderators or admins of large groups will find it easier to manage disputes or clarify misunderstandings when conversations are neatly threaded.

WhatsApp has not officially announced a release date, but reports suggest the feature is being rolled out gradually for iOS beta users and will soon be available globally. Android support is expected to follow soon after.

In a world where messaging apps are central to both personal and professional communication, threaded replies on WhatsApp are a long-awaited improvement. By helping users manage complex group conversations more effectively, this feature promises to make WhatsApp even more competitive and user-friendly.