WhatsApp is reportedly launching the latest search shortcut for chats and channels on iOS, enabling users to find messages more quickly while staying in the conversation.
New search shortcut
As per WABetaInfo, the feature was discovered in WhatsApp Messenger for iOS version 26.36.74 and is currently being launched to users.
The new button appears at the top of the chat screen when users scroll up via a conversation.
Clicking the shortcut activates search mode directly within the chat, letting users enter a keyword and browse matching messages without even launching the chat information screen.
Search also available in channels
The Meta-owned WhatsApp has extended the shortcut to channels, individual and group chats. Users can easily browse for older channel updates without navigating via the channel information page.
This could be especially helpful for frequently updated channels, where browsing older posts manually can be a bit time-consuming.
The search shortcut remains invisible all the time. As per the company, it appears when users scroll up via a conversation and disappears when they return to the bottom of the chat.
Initially, WhatsApp had experimented with the button at the bottom of the screen; however, it changed its position ahead of launching to broader rollout. The new placement is intended to avoid conflicts with other controls.
Some iOS users can only access the search shortcut who downloads the latest compatible update from the App Store.
WhatsApp is gradually diversifying access in the near future, meaning select users may see the feature immediately.
The company has yet to officially confirm when the shortcut will become available to all iOS users.
