Facebook-owned WhatsApp quietly rolled in a new feature for Apple users which allows them to receive in-app notifications. According to a report on WABetainfo.com, the feature (as the name suggests) will be used to make announcements within the app. Yes, that means you don't have to log into their blog or check Twitter every time there's a new update in the pipeline.

While this update is currently restricted to iOS users, Android will soon be getting its own version of in-app notifications in the coming future. More details about the same are being awaited.

How do I switch on in-app notifications for my iPhone?

You will need to switch on the in-app notifications by going into Settings on your WhatsApp. You will find the 'notifications' sub-section where you can select the alert style you wish to choose -- None, Banners, Alerts. While the banners that appear on the top of your screen will fade away like regular notifications, the app may 'require action before proceeding' in case you happen to choose alerts. Apart from these, selecting the 'none' option will mean you have chosen not to get notified, even when the app is open. You can opt for your alerts to be silent or vibrating, as per your preference.

What does this feature mean?

The in-app notification for WhatsApp will help you stay abreast with the new and upcoming updates for the app. This feature is similar to that of Telegram, which notifies the users using a 'messaging chatbot'. However, instead of dropping a message, it will simply alert you in the form of notifications. WhatsApp is aiming at revising its terms and conditions in 2021, and users can choose to opt-out of the app in case they don't wish to comply with the new requirements. WhatsApp has several exciting features lined up for its users in the pipeline, this includes being able to have different wallpapers for each chat and stickers. The company is working to roll these out in the next few weeks.