ISLAMABAD, Oct 18: WhatsApp is working on a new feature that will allow users to request someone’s location directly through a chat, eliminating the need to type a separate message asking them to share their whereabouts.
The upcoming feature was discovered by technology website Android Authority during an analysis of the APK file for WhatsApp version 2.26.41.11.
According to the report, researchers were able to manually activate the option on a test device, indicating that the Meta-owned messaging platform is developing a dedicated location request function.
Currently, WhatsApp allows users to share their current location as a fixed point on a map or send their live location, which updates as they move. However, requesting another person’s location generally requires sending a written message.
Under the proposed feature, a Request Location option could appear in the existing Send Location menu. Selecting it would generate a dedicated location request card within the conversation.
The new option is designed to make location requests more visible and convenient, reducing the need for users to explain their requests through separate messages.
The feature remains under development, and WhatsApp has yet to confirm when it will become available or whether it will be included in a future public update.