WhatsApp is adding shortcuts that make it easier to interact with information shared in messages. According to a report from WABetaInfo, the iOS app can recognize calendar entries, phone numbers, email addresses and physical addresses, then underline them with a dotted line.
Tapping a recognized item opens a menu with options tailored to its type. All supported entries can be copied to the smartphone’s clipboard. Physical addresses can be opened in a maps app, while email addresses can be sent to the device’s corresponding mail application.
Calendar information offers additional options: users can add an entry to their calendar or create a WhatsApp event within the messenger. The latter can be used to invite members of a group to an event. Phone numbers can be saved as contacts or called directly. If the number belongs to a business account’s service line, WhatsApp can also provide an option to view related information.
The feature raises questions about how the app processes potentially sensitive information. WABetaInfo reports that recognition takes place directly on the device, without sending the data to WhatsApp servers. The app is said to identify patterns that match known formats, and the feature should not affect end-to-end encryption.
The shortcuts are expected to be released in the regular WhatsApp versions for iOS and Android rather than only in a beta version. However, access will not be available to everyone immediately. Meta plans to enable the feature for additional accounts over the coming weeks.
Sources: t3n.