WhatsApp to introduce 'vacation mode' just in time for Christmas
Whether you’re planning a last-minute getaway this festive season or simply wish to hibernate with a good old fashioned book and cuppas on tap – there’s nothing more distracting than the table-shaking groans of a WhatsApp group chat.
But the messaging giant is reportedly introducing a new update designed to free you from deciding where to have brunch next Saturday (when all you want to do is finish your Netflix series RN).
According to WABetaInfo, WhatsApp is set to launch ‘vacation mode’ which is designed to completely mute group notifications. The update will also ensure that no notifications will appear on your phone whether you’re replying to your mum via the app or have secured the lock screen.
Currently, users can mute chats if they wish but pesky push notifications will still pop up even when the app is closed.
![How often are you guilty of checking your phone? [Photo: Getty]](https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/zX3dWSI.o.p5Tez.7VUZUA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxNw--/https://media.zenfs.com/en/homerun/feed_manager_auto_publish_494/f4fec386b020a7bea95ec24e652862f4)
‘Vacation mode’ will ensure that all messages are automatically archived so you won’t be tempted by any until you return the app back to active mode.
So, if you’re desperate to have some peace and quiet before the school pick-up you’ll be able to activate the new update by muting the group chat then archiving it.
Once you have completed this, you simply need to activate ‘vacation mode’.
It is unclear when the update will be available although The Independent reports that the new feature could be introduced in the next few weeks.
According to a recent YouGov study, six out of 10 Brits check their work emails while on holiday despite the fact that eight in 10 wish they could completely switch off.
With Christmas fast approaching, the new update will hopefully enable us to fully enjoy well-deserved family time (and countless mince pies) without keeping an eye on the work group chat.
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