In its most recent macOS update—version 25.22.79—WhatsApp has introduced a game-changing Chat Filter feature that makes navigating conversations smoother and more tailored than ever before. Released via the App Store on August 25, 2025, this update marks a significant step toward platform-wide consistency by bringing the intuitive filtering experience from iOS to macOS
What’s New in Version 25.22.79?
WhatsApp has added a dynamic, tappable filter row at the top of your chat list that lets you instantly switch between:
- Unread — Displays only chats with messages you haven’t opened yet—or those you’ve manually marked as unread.
- Favourites — Highlights chats with contacts or groups you’ve designated as favorites, putting them front and center.
- Groups — Aggregates all group chats in one streamlined view.
This refined navigation dramatically reduces scrolling and helps users zero in on urgent, meaningful, or group-specific conversations with minimal effort
Why This Matters
With messaging apps forming the backbone of both personal and professional communication, keeping track of conversations can become overwhelming—especially if you’re actively involved in multiple groups. The new filters allow you to:
- Prioritize unread messages without distraction.
- Stay connected with your most important contacts or groups through the Favorites filter.
- Seamlessly manage group discussions, which are often passive and easy to miss.
Crucially, by echoing the functionality of WhatsApp’s iOS version, the macOS app now offers a more unified experience across devices
A Gradual, Smart Rollout
The feature is currently rolling out gradually, so while some users already see it, others may need to wait for upcoming updates to gain access
Behind the Scenes: Origins of Chat Filters
Though the Mac release is fresh, the idea of chat filters has roots stretching back:
- April 2024: WhatsApp debuted the original filters—All, Unread, and Groups—across its mobile apps for easier conversation sorting.
- July 2024: A Favourites filter was introduced on mobile platforms, allowing users to highlight key contacts and chat threads
- October 2024: Custom chat lists began rolling out, letting users craft personal filters—think “Family,” “Work,” or “Close Friends” lists
The macOS update marries all these ideas—basic filters, favorites, and personalized chat lists—into a consolidated, desktop-ready filter bar
What to Expect Next
There’s a good chance WhatsApp will continue refining the feature by:
- Allowing users to reorder or hide preset filters (as already being tested on mobile)
- Expanding the functionality of custom lists on macOS to mirror what’s available on mobile.
Final Thoughts
WhatsApp for macOS’s Chat Filter rollout brings much-needed clarity and control to the chat interface—enabling users to pinpoint unread messages, favorite contacts, or group discussions at a glance. It’s a smart move in improving cross-platform consistency and easing navigation for power users.
About the Author
