WhatsApp is releasing a new feature called Group Message History, that allows existing group members to share selected past messages with newly added members.
The company announced the update in a blog post published on February 21, 2026, stating that the feature is being introduced gradually to users worldwide.
WhatsApp said the tool addresses one of the most frequent complaints about group chats the inability of new members to see earlier conversations. The company described it as “one of our most requested features,” adding that it remains “end-to-end encrypted like all other personal messages.”
The feature is triggered when a new participant is added to a group. At that point, WhatsApp displays a pop-up prompt asking existing members whether they want to share recent chat history.
Message history is not shared automatically.
Group members can choose to share between 25 and 100 previously sent messages. The selected messages are then made visible to the new member.
The platform also provides transparency. When messages are shared, the group receives a notification indicating what was shared and by whom.
Group administrators have the option to disable the feature entirely, a control that may be relevant for business, professional or private groups.
WhatsApp confirmed that all shared messages remain protected by end-to-end encryption. The opt-in structure is designed to prevent unintended disclosure of sensitive conversations.
The company stated that the feature provides “a quicker, more private way to keep conversations flowing,” while maintaining existing privacy standards.
The rollout is global but phased, meaning availability will vary depending on device and region. The feature will be available on both Android and iOS platforms, beginning with beta users before expanding more broadly.
WhatsApp has not provided a specific completion date for the rollout.
