WhatsApp seems to be currently developing a new feature designed to streamline how users share locations with friends and family. Identified by researchers in version 2.26.41.11 of the Android application, the tool introduces a dedicated Request Location button within chats, eliminating the need for users to manually explain how to share an address.
At present, WhatsApp allows individuals to share either a fixed current location dropped as a pin on a map or live location tracking that follows user movements over a selected timeframe. While these capabilities are robust, requesting an address often requires a text explanation. The upcoming addition seeks to bridge this usability gap by introducing a streamlined workflow.
The WhatsApp request location button is now present on the “Send location” screen. (Image: AndroidAuthority)
Under the new system, users will be able to access the location sharing menu and select the request option. This action inserts a specialized Location request card directly into the conversation stream. By making the request more prominent, the feature removes the friction of sending text instructions and makes coordinating meetups significantly easier.
During early evaluations, researchers successfully enabled the button and transmitted requests manually. However, complete functionality could not be fully verified because secondary test devices displayed the incoming prompt as an unsupported message format, preventing a preview of the recipient’s response interface. Analysts speculate that tapping the prompt will likely open the location-sharing screen directly, though official confirmation from Meta is still pending.
This capability closely mirrors a similar function available in Apple’s iMessage, which lets users request geographic data straight from the chat menu. If officially rolled out to the public, the tool will particularly benefit individuals who struggle with navigation settings or unfamiliar app menus.
Because the feature remains in early development within the beta channel, no official release date has been announced, and public testing may take several months.
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