WhatsApp introduces new features: Group membership approval and viewing common groups

Instant messaging application WhatsApp is set to roll out two new improvements related to group functions. Meta will launch them globally in the coming weeks.

The improvements include:

• Allowing users to view groups they have in common with others. Similar to Telegram’s “Common Groups” feature, this allows users to see the names of groups they share with their contacts. While this feature seems useful, it also exposes users’ privacy to some extent.
• Allowing group administrators to control who can join the group. WhatsApp now allows group admins to approve individuals before they can join the group, giving admins the final say. This helps to combat users who try to send advertisements and spam messages to groups.