WhatsApp is working on a new feature that could make your chat list much cleaner. The messaging platform is testing a dedicated folder that automatically moves messages from large businesses out of the main chat list, helping users focus on conversations with friends and family. The feature is currently in testing and has not yet been rolled out to everyone.
Key Highlights
- WhatsApp is testing a separate folder for messages from large businesses.
- Promotional messages and updates will be moved automatically after a few hours.
- Personal chats will remain in the main conversation list.
- Users will be able to disable the feature if they prefer.
- The update is part of Meta's growing focus on WhatsApp Business.
What Is the New Business Messages Folder?
The new feature creates a dedicated section—often referred to as an "Offers & Updates" folder—for messages sent by large businesses.
Instead of filling your primary chat list with promotional offers, order updates, and marketing campaigns, WhatsApp will automatically move these conversations into the separate folder after a set period. Meta is reportedly testing different time intervals, with some versions moving messages after up to 24 hours.
Why Is WhatsApp Introducing This Feature?
Over the past few years, WhatsApp has become an important platform for businesses to communicate with customers.
Millions of companies now use the app to send:
- Delivery updates
- Promotional offers
- Appointment reminders
- Customer support messages
- Order confirmations
While these messages are useful, they can also crowd users' inboxes. The new folder aims to reduce clutter without blocking important business communications.
Can Users Turn It Off?
Yes.
According to reports, users who prefer to keep all conversations in one place will have the option to disable the automatic sorting feature. This gives users greater control over how their WhatsApp inbox is organized.
How Does This Benefit Users?
The feature offers several advantages:
- Cleaner and more organized chat list.
- Easier access to personal conversations.
- Less distraction from promotional messages.
- Business updates remain available without overwhelming the inbox.
This is especially useful for people who receive frequent notifications from banks, airlines, e-commerce stores, and food delivery services.
Part of Meta's Bigger Business Strategy
The update comes as Meta continues expanding WhatsApp's business ecosystem.
During Meta's latest earnings call, CEO Mark Zuckerberg revealed that revenue from WhatsApp's paid messaging and business subscriptions has grown significantly, with business-related services becoming an increasingly important part of the company's revenue. Organizing commercial messages more effectively could improve the user experience while supporting further growth in WhatsApp Business.
When Will the Feature Be Available?
Meta has not announced an official release date.
The dedicated business messages folder is currently being tested, and the company may refine the feature based on user feedback before making it available globally.
Final Verdict
WhatsApp's new business messages folder could be one of the app's most practical quality-of-life improvements. By separating promotional and business communications from personal chats, the feature promises a cleaner inbox without preventing users from receiving important updates.
If testing goes well, the feature is expected to become part of a future WhatsApp update, giving users more control over how they manage conversations.