Science & Tech · Big Tech & Internet · 6 hrs ago
WhatsApp plans simpler features, more AI and in-app services
WhatsApp development head Kunal Shah outlined plans for the app’s next phase after taking over its development earlier this year.
The app has more than 3 billion users, but its growing range of features can make it difficult to navigate.
Shah says WhatsApp will make voice notes, groups, stickers and video simpler and more expressive.
The company is also working with financial and telecom partners to explore services such as bill payments, loans and eSIM purchases.
WhatsApp already has an AI assistant that can summarize messages and draft text, and Shah wants AI to help people find information and manage tasks.
He says these changes should help people stay close and get more done in the app.
WhatsApp has not given a timeline or confirmed which new services will launch, and it is unclear whether its AI will send reminders about bookings and appointments.
WhatsApp wants to simplify features and make the app easier to use, its development head Kunal Shah said.
The company plans to make voice notes, groups, stickers and video simpler and more expressive.
Shah said WhatsApp is working with financial services and telecom partners to make tasks such as bill payments and staying connected while travelling easier to complete.
He also said the company wants AI to help users find information and avoid missing bookings or appointments.
WhatsApp is used by more than 3 billion people, according to TechCrunch.
- Who
- WhatsApp and its development head, Kunal Shah.
- What
- The company plans simpler features, more AI support and easier access to services through the app.
- When
- Shah shared his note on Tuesday, November 10, 2026.
- Where
- WhatsApp.
- Why
- Shah said the company wants to help people stay close to those who matter to them and get more done on WhatsApp.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Kunal Shah took over leadership of WhatsApp’s development from Will Cathcart.
Shah shared a note outlining plans for WhatsApp’s next phase.
- Users
- Over 3 billion
- Daily voice messages
- Over 10 billion
- Daily stickers
- Over 4 billion
- Planned service partners
- Financial services and telecom providers
3 sources
What people are saying
We’ll make voice notes, groups, stickers and video simpler and more expressive, because how people feel close keeps changing.
It should quickly find what you need, get things done, and make sure you never miss a booking or an appointment.
Posts on X
I am nearly 4+ Months In WhatsApp I think of WhatsApp like a shared language, spoken by 3bn+ people. Sometimes we use words, and sometimes it’s a voice note to a parent, a sticker that ends an argument, or a "that was a fun dinner” at the end of the night. Language is at the