WhatsApp is preparing to make everyday messaging more convenient with a new feature called Smart Text Actions. The feature is designed to help users perform different tasks directly from their conversations without repeatedly switching between applications.

With this update, WhatsApp can recognise important information such as phone numbers, dates, times, email addresses and locations shared in chats. Users can then access relevant shortcuts to save contacts, create calendar events, make calls or open locations in Maps.

The feature is reportedly rolling out to selected Android and iOS users and is expected to reach more users gradually.

1. What Is WhatsApp's New Smart Text Actions Feature?

According to reports by WABetaInfo, WhatsApp has started introducing Smart Text Actions in newer versions of its Android and iOS applications.

The feature automatically identifies useful information shared in conversations. When WhatsApp recognises a phone number, date, time, email address or location, it displays a dotted underline beneath the relevant text.

Users can tap or long-press the highlighted information to access a pop-up menu containing different actions.

This will make it easier to perform everyday tasks without manually copying information and opening other applications.

2. Save Phone Numbers Directly From WhatsApp Chats

One of the most useful additions is the ability to perform actions directly on phone numbers shared in conversations.

When someone sends a phone number, users can select options to copy the number, save it as a new contact or call it directly.

This eliminates the need to manually copy numbers and switch between WhatsApp and the phone's contacts application.

It could be particularly useful when receiving contact details from colleagues, friends or business clients.

3. Create Calendar Events Using Dates and Times

WhatsApp's Smart Text Actions feature will also make managing schedules easier.

When someone shares a date or time in a conversation, users can access an option to add the information to their phone's calendar or create a new event.

For example, if someone sends a message about a meeting scheduled for a particular date and time, users may be able to create a calendar entry directly from that message.

This could help users avoid missing important meetings, appointments and personal events.

4. Open Locations and Send Emails Directly

The new feature will also recognise addresses and email IDs shared in conversations.

When a location or address is detected, users can tap it to open the location in their preferred Maps application.

Similarly, tapping an email address can provide an option to compose an email using the phone's default email application.

These shortcuts are expected to reduce the number of steps required to perform routine tasks.

5. Works With Both Incoming and Outgoing Messages

Another interesting aspect of Smart Text Actions is that it is expected to work with both incoming and outgoing messages.

Some of these actions were already available through WhatsApp's existing text recognition capabilities. However, the new feature aims to organise them into a more convenient and consistent menu.

Users who do not want to use these shortcuts can continue reading and sending messages normally.

WhatsApp may also provide a feedback option after users interact with the suggested actions, allowing them to share whether a particular shortcut was useful.

When Will WhatsApp Smart Text Actions Be Available to Everyone?

The feature is reportedly being rolled out gradually to selected users on Android and iOS through newer app versions.

WhatsApp has not yet announced a confirmed date for its wider availability. Users can keep their applications updated through the Google Play Store or Apple App Store to receive new features as they become available.

With Smart Text Actions, WhatsApp is looking to make conversations more interactive and useful by turning important information shared in chats into quick actions.