WhatsApp Unveils New Group Features: Member Tags, Text Stickers, and Event Reminders
January 7, 2026
WhatsApp Messenger remains freely available on the App Store with additional links for further information and download.
Text stickers unlock the ability to turn any word into a sticker via a built-in Sticker Search and allow users to add created stickers to personal packs for quick reuse in chats.
WhatsApp is rolling out three new group-chat features—member tags, text stickers, and custom early event reminders—to improve organization and expression within groups.
These updates complement existing WhatsApp capabilities like large-file sharing up to 2GB, HD media, screen sharing, and cross-device voice chats, as part of broader group-enhancement efforts.
Industry and user sentiment suggest these tools improve group onboarding and organization, with use cases spanning education, nonprofits, remote work, and large communities.
Custom early event reminders enable scheduling reminders when creating or sharing a group event, helping attendees remember to join and participate.
Member tags let admins assign a group-specific label or role (for example, ‘Noah’s Dad’ or ‘Goalkeeper’) without altering users’ global profile names, enhancing context in large groups.
rollout is gradually rolling out on the latest Android and iOS versions, with users encouraged to update their app if the features aren’t visible yet.
The feature debuted in beta on Android and iOS late last year, faced initial syncing issues, and admins can disable it if it doesn’t suit a given group.
Affiliate links and promos appear in the article’s sidebar and footer but are not central to the feature announcements.
It remains unclear which specific iOS version is required for these features, as release timelines vary.
Member tags resemble systems used by Slack or Discord but use a lighter, non-permission-based approach focused on clarity and mobile friendliness.
Summary based on 11 sources
Get a daily email with more Tech stories
Sources

TechCrunch • Jan 7, 2026
WhatsApp rolls out new group chat features, including member tags
9to5Mac • Jan 7, 2026
WhatsApp launches three new features to upgrade group chats - 9to5Mac
Yahoo! • Jan 7, 2026
WhatsApp upgrades group chats with member tags and text stickers
MacRumors • Jan 7, 2026
WhatsApp Enhances Group Chats With Three New Features