WhatsApp Format Text Shortcut Feature Now Available for Beta iOS Users: Here’s How It Works
WhatsApp has quietly introduced a WhatsApp format text shortcut feature for beta users on iOS. This update, submitted through the TestFlight beta program, brings the app to version 22.22.0.70. The same capability also appears in version 2.22.22.70 within WhatsApp settings. For those tracking the build number, it is 22.22.0 (40893575).
The popular instant messaging platform, owned by Meta, consistently rolls out new tools to improve user experience. This time, the focus is on making text formatting faster and more intuitive. If you are a beta tester, you can now apply bold, italics, strikethrough, and monospace styles with just a few taps.
What Is the WhatsApp Format Text Shortcut?
Text formatting on WhatsApp has always been possible using special characters. For example, placing an underscore before and after a word makes it italic. Using an asterisk produces bold text. A tilde creates strikethrough, while three backticks generate monospace formatting.
However, remembering these symbols can be tedious. The new WhatsApp format text shortcut simplifies the process. Instead of typing characters, you can now select the text you want to format and tap the formatting menu. This method is quicker and reduces errors.
How the BIU Menu Evolved
Previously, WhatsApp offered a BIU (Bold, Italic, Underline) menu action for formatting. This worked well on iOS 15 and earlier versions. However, after the iOS 16 update, the menu was renamed to simply “Format”. This change initially caused confusion, as the BIU option disappeared for some users.
According to reports from WABetaInfo, a leading WhatsApp news source, the new beta update restores this functionality. iOS 16 beta testers can now see the format text shortcut when they select text. Meanwhile, users on iOS 15 or older versions will still see the original BIU menu. This ensures consistency across different operating system versions.
Why This Update Matters for iOS Users
WhatsApp remains one of the most in-demand apps globally. With billions of active users, the platform must constantly enhance its features. The WhatsApp format text shortcut is a small but meaningful improvement. It saves time and makes communication more expressive.
For instance, you can quickly emphasize a key point in a group chat or add a strikethrough to correct a mistake. These formatting options are especially useful for professional conversations. They help convey tone and intent more clearly.
Building on this, the update aligns with WhatsApp’s broader strategy of improving usability. The company has also been working on other features, such as message editing and account security. To learn more, check out our guide on WhatsApp message editing feature.
How to Get the WhatsApp Format Text Shortcut
To access this feature, you need to install the latest iOS beta version. Then, update your WhatsApp account through the TestFlight app. Once installed, the format text shortcut will appear automatically.
Here is a step-by-step breakdown:
- Open TestFlight on your iPhone.
- Find the WhatsApp beta build (version 22.22.0.70 or later).
- Tap “Update” to install the latest version.
- Open WhatsApp and select any text in a chat.
- Tap the “Format” option from the pop-up menu.
- Choose bold, italic, strikethrough, or monospace.
This process is straightforward. However, note that this feature is currently limited to beta testers. Stable release users will likely receive it in a future update. For more details on WhatsApp’s development roadmap, visit WhatsApp beta updates page.
What About Android and Desktop Users?
Text formatting is not exclusive to iOS. WhatsApp supports these features on Android, Desktop, and Web versions as well. The difference lies in the shortcut method. Android users can still use the traditional character-based formatting. Desktop users have a similar menu option when right-clicking selected text.
Nevertheless, the iOS update sets a precedent. It shows that WhatsApp is prioritizing a more visual and intuitive approach. This could lead to similar improvements on other platforms in the future.
Final Thoughts on the WhatsApp Format Text Shortcut
WhatsApp continues to refine its user experience with each update. The WhatsApp format text shortcut is a welcome addition for iOS beta users. It simplifies text styling and makes messaging more efficient.
As the platform evolves, users can expect more innovative features. Whether it is message editing, security enhancements, or formatting tools, WhatsApp remains committed to seamless communication. Stay tuned for further updates from the beta program.
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