Blog/WhatsApp Knowledge

New Feature: Organize Chats in WhatsApp

Rolled out since October 31, 2024: You can now organize your chats in WhatsApp to maintain a better overview.

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By Johannes Mansbart

CEO & Co-Founder, chatarmin.com

Last updated at: February 10, 2026

WhatsApp Knowledge

☝️ The most important facts in brief

  • WhatsApp now lets users categorize chats with a new List function, offering more control and better organization.
  • Users can create custom lists for individual and group chats, enabling quick access to important conversations.
  • Simply tap the plus icon to create lists, name them, and add relevant chats. Editing and deleting lists is straightforward.
  • The feature began rolling out on October 31, 2024, and will be available to all users over the coming weeks on Android and iOS.

New Feature: Organize WhatsApp Chats

WhatsApp is rolling out a handy new feature: the List function lets you organize your chats and groups more efficiently. Now, you can categorize your contacts into personalized lists, making your messenger experience more streamlined.

Previously, WhatsApp offered only limited ways to manage your chat list. You could archive rarely used chats or mark important contacts as favorites. With the new List feature, WhatsApp now offers greater flexibility for keeping track of your conversations.

WhatsApp Introduces List Function for Chat Organization

WhatsApp has introduced a new feature that helps users organize their chats and quickly access important conversations. With the List function, you can sort your chats by custom categories, keeping your inbox well-organized.

To create a new list, simply click the plus icon in the filter bar at the top of the screen. Give the list a descriptive name and add the desired chats. You can select both individual and group chats, similar to adding favorites.

Your created lists appear in the filter bar, allowing quick access to relevant conversations without needing to scroll through your entire inbox. The List function is particularly useful if you manage many conversations and need efficient chat filtering.

To edit or rename a list, simply long-press on the list name. You can adjust and optimize your categories anytime. This new feature marks an important step toward better chat organization, making it easier to manage your daily conversations.

How the New Lists Work in WhatsApp

The new lists in WhatsApp offer a simple way to organize your chats. To create a list, tap the plus icon at the top of the app. Here, you can name the list and directly add contacts you want in that list.

Editing or deleting a list is just as easy. Select the desired list and hold down on the list name to access options for customization or removal.

Both individual and group chats can be sorted into lists, keeping your conversations neatly organized. However, note that archived chats do not automatically appear in the lists; they must first be unarchived to be added to a list.

With WhatsApp’s new list feature, you now have a practical tool for structuring your chats. Try it out and see how it helps you keep track of conversations and communicate more efficiently.

Organizing WhatsApp Chats: Gradual Rollout of the New Feature

WhatsApp is gradually rolling out the new List feature to organize chats for all users. The rollout began on October 31, 2024, and some users can already access it. In the coming days and weeks, more accounts will be enabled.

The new feature is being introduced for both Android and iOS devices. It's important to note that access is independent of the installed app version and cannot be manually activated. To ensure you’re using the latest version of WhatsApp, check the Google Play Store or iOS App Store for available updates.

Here’s how to check if you already have access to the List function:

Open WhatsApp on your smartphone

Tap on the Chats tab in the bottom bar

Check if new options such as "Unread," "Groups," or "Personal" appear above your chat list

If these options are visible, you can already use the List function. If not, you may need to wait a bit longer. The full rollout may take a few weeks to reach all users worldwide.

Conclusion

WhatsApp's new List function simplifies chat organization, enhancing the messenger’s overall layout. By allowing users to categorize chats, important conversations can be found much faster. This expanded filtering option is particularly helpful for users with numerous contacts and group chats, providing a valuable tool for increasing productivity within the app.

Overall, the List function is a meaningful addition to WhatsApp’s existing features. It addresses users' needs for better organization and clarity. With this update, WhatsApp solidifies its role as an essential communication tool for both personal and professional use.

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